What is the plot of the play that goes wrong? This question often arises when discussing dramatic works that defy expectations and take unexpected turns. These plays, often characterized by their intricate plotlines and surprising twists, captivate audiences and leave them guessing until the very end. In this article, we will explore some notable examples of plays where the plot goes wrong, analyzing the reasons behind these unexpected developments and their impact on the audience’s perception of the story.
The play “No Exit” by Jean-Paul Sartre is a prime example of a story where the plot goes wrong. The play revolves around three characters, who find themselves in a room together after death, only to realize that they are trapped in purgatory. The audience expects the characters to confront their past sins and learn from them, but instead, the play takes a dark turn. The characters are unable to communicate effectively, leading to a cycle of frustration and resentment. This unexpected twist forces the audience to reconsider the nature of redemption and the human condition.
Another play that defies expectations is “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” by Edward Albee. The plot initially revolves around a seemingly perfect couple, George and Martha, hosting a dinner party. As the evening progresses, the facade of their perfect marriage begins to crumble, revealing the underlying bitterness and resentment between them. The audience expects the couple to reconcile, but instead, the play takes a dark and violent turn. The unexpected climax leaves the audience in shock, questioning the true nature of their relationship and the consequences of their actions.
In “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde, the plot goes wrong in a delightful and unexpected way. The story revolves around two main characters, Jack and Algernon, who lead double lives. Jack pretends to be a gentleman named Ernest, while Algernon pretends to be a sickly invalid named Bunbury. The audience expects the play to unfold in a predictable manner, with the characters eventually revealing their true identities. However, Wilde subverts this expectation by having the characters reveal their secrets to each other and then discover that they are already aware of the other’s deception. This unexpected twist adds a layer of humor and irony to the play, leaving the audience amused and enlightened.
These examples illustrate how a play can go wrong in a variety of ways, from dark and disturbing twists to delightful and ironic turns. The reasons behind these unexpected developments often lie in the playwright’s desire to challenge the audience’s expectations and provoke thought. By taking the plot in unexpected directions, these plays succeed in captivating and engaging their audiences, leaving them pondering the complexities of human nature and the nature of storytelling itself.
