51 pages • 1 hour read
The Skin of Our Teeth
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Book Brief
176
Play • Fiction
Excelsior, New Jersey • 1940s
1942
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder follows the Antrobus family, who symbolize humanity's resilience as they endure and survive three catastrophic events: an ice age, a great flood, and a devastating war, with each act reflecting a different crisis. Employing surrealism and epic theater techniques, Wilder uses a cyclical plot to highlight themes of survival, family loyalty, and human perseverance.
Fantastical
Humorous
Contemplative
Hopeful
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
5,036 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Thornton Wilder's The Skin of Our Teeth has been lauded for its innovative narrative and blending of genres, deftly combining comedy, tragedy, and satire. Critics appreciate its timeless themes and social commentary. However, some find the play's unconventional structure challenging. Overall, it's celebrated for its originality and thought-provoking content.
Who Should Read The Skin of Our Teeth?
A reader who enjoys The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder is often drawn to innovative, meta-theatrical works that blend humor and existential themes. Similar audiences are captivated by the quirky, thought-provoking nature of works like Pirandello’s Six Characters in Search of an Author or Beckett’s Waiting for Godot.
5,036 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Maggie Antrobus
Maggie Antrobus
The matriarch of the Antrobus family, known for her fierce protection of her children and her role as a strong domestic figure, representing a historical everywoman adjusting to the changing roles during the 1940s.
Henry Antrobus
Henry Antrobus
The son of George and Maggie, previously known as Cain, who struggles with his violent nature and acts out a historical and symbolic role within the family narrative.
Gladys Antrobus
Gladys Antrobus
The daughter of George and Maggie, who faces high expectations from her family to embody proper behavior while quietly challenging these norms and contributing to the family's efforts in times of crisis.
Lily Sabina Fairweather/Miss Somerset
Lily Sabina Fairweather/Miss Somerset
Initially George's mistress turned family maid, Sabina represents temptation and pleasure, often breaking character to express disdain for the play and adopting assertive, nonconformist qualities.
Mr. Fitzpatrick
Mr. Fitzpatrick
The stage manager responsible for maintaining the structure of the play, whose interactions with Sabina and other disruptions remind the audience of the performance's metatheatrical elements.
176
Play • Fiction
Excelsior, New Jersey • 1940s
1942
Adult
16+ years
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