the CIVIL warS: A tree is best measured when it is down: Analysis of Major Characters
"The CIVIL warS: A tree is best measured when it is down" presents a unique examination of major characters, intertwining historical and fictional figures from the American Civil War and beyond. The work features prominent individuals such as Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee, and John Wilkes Booth, alongside their counterparts, like Mrs. Lincoln and Mrs. Lee, portrayed in vivid, almost animated forms. This theatrical project explores themes of civil conflict, extending beyond the American context to encompass familial strife and international figures, reflecting a broader notion of "civil war." The inclusion of characters from various cultures, including a Japanese sun goddess and European historical figures, showcases the global implications of conflict and the universality of its themes. The piece aims to engage audiences through its rich tapestry of characters and scenarios, prompting reflection on the nature of war and its impact on society. Ultimately, it invites viewers to consider the multifaceted aspects of conflict, making it relevant to diverse perspectives on history and humanity.
the CIVIL warS: A tree is best measured when it is down: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Robert Wilson
Genre: Play
Locale: the United States, Europe, Japan, and a jungle
Plot: Minimalism
Time: Unspecified
Abraham Lincoln, Mrs. Lincoln, Robert E. Lee, Mrs. Lee, John Wilkes Booth, Mathew Brady, and American Civil War soldiers, some of the historical and fictional personages, resembling animated wax figures on display, who populate the work's arresting scenarios. They are derived from a series of “free associational” thoughts, sparked by reflections on the American Civil War. Because the playwright also considered his central concept of civil war to be applicable to a wide variety of confrontations, including family conflicts, the family of Frederick the Great and an American fin de siècle family appear as well. The international scope of the project (originally scheduled to premiere at the 1984 Summer Olympic Games) is reflected in the use of figures (for example, a Japanese sun goddess, William the Silent, and Giuseppe Garibaldi) who may be identified with the countries that participated in the venture. The appearance of Hercules in the final act is perhaps in recognition of the ancient origin of the Games.