R.U.R.: Analysis of Setting
"R.U.R." (Rossum's Universal Robots) is a seminal play that explores the themes of automation, humanity, and the consequences of industrialization through its distinct settings. The play begins on an unnamed island, serving as the backdrop for the robot revolt, which becomes a symbol of transformation—from a site of rebellion to a sort of Eden where the last human experiences the emergence of love between two robots. This transition reflects a profound shift in the narrative, suggesting the potential for a new form of humanity rooted in the robotic characters.
Another pivotal setting is the central office of Rossmann's Universal Robots, where business and personal relationships intertwine. Here, Harry Domin's proposal to Helena Glory illustrates the transactional nature of human connections within a corporate framework. In contrast, Helena’s drawing room, ten years later, introduces a more humanized space that reflects her influence, providing a softer atmosphere amidst the sterile environment of the robot factory.
Finally, the laboratory where Alquist works serves as a place of desperation and hope, highlighting his struggle to reconnect with the essence of life as he experiments on robots. His encounters with a young robot couple reveal an unexpected depth of emotional connection, challenging the traditional notions of what it means to be human. Overall, the settings in "R.U.R." enhance the narrative's exploration of love, identity, and the future of humanity in the face of technological advancement.
R.U.R.: Analysis of Setting
First published: 1920 (English translation, 1923)
First produced: 1921
Type of work: Drama
Type of plot: Social satire
Time of work: The future
Places Discussed
Island
Island. Unnamed island in an unspecified remote location that is the initial launching ground for the robot revolt. By the end of the play, the island becomes a kind of Eden, where the last human man witnesses the birth of love between a young robot couple that holds the promise of a new kind of humanity, albeit a robot one.
Rossman’s Universal Robots office
Rossman’s Universal Robots office. Central office of R.U.R., in which Harry Domin, the general manager, meets Helena Glory, who has come to tour the factory. Harry eventually proposes marriage in a manner that suggests a business transaction. It is fitting that such a proposal takes place in his office.
Helena’s drawing room
Helena’s drawing room. Ten years after Helena and Harry marry, their drawing room is neatly appointed, revealing the humanizing and feminine influence that Helena brings to the otherwise sterile environment of the robot factory.
Laboratory
Laboratory. Workplace where Alquist—the last human still alive—experiments on robots, hoping to rediscover the formula for their manufacture. He fails but confronts a young robot couple who exhibit signs of romantic love. They have already transcended Alquist’s ability to propagate their race and reveal a humanity that all human beings in the play—except Helena—ironically lack.
Bibliography
Čapek, Karel. Toward the Radical Center: A Karel Capek Reader. Edited and introduced by Peter Kussi. Translated by Norma Comrada, et al. Highland Park, N.J.: Catbird Press, 1990. Includes a brief but informative biography. Evaluates existing translations of Čapek’s works and provides many new translations, including R.U.R. Discusses Čapek’s philosophy, politics, and use of language.
Harkins, William Edward. Karel Capek. New York: Columbia University Press, 1962. Best introduction to R.U.R. Only book-length critical study of Čapek’s work written in English, discussing philosophy, artistic structure, theme, character, literary influences, and innovations in form.
King, Sharon D. “A Better Eve: Women and Robots in Capek’s R.U.R. and Pavlovsky’s El Robot.” In Women in Theatre, edited by James Redmond. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press, 1989. Interesting, detailed analysis of the character of Helena, including discussion of male-female roles and attitudes about childbirth and sterility.
Matuska, Alexander. Karel Capek: An Essay. Translated by Cathryn Alan. London: Allen & Unwin, 1964. Clear introduction to life and philosophy for new readers. Discusses R.U.R. as an analysis of human nature and of labor.
Wellek, Rene. Essays on Czech Literature. The Hague: Mouton, 1963. Divides Čapek’s writing into three periods, discussing changes in style and subject matter. Evaluates the play’s theatrical qualities, traces popularity, and analyzes the play’s emphasis on the dangers of mechanization.