Street Scene: Analysis of Major Characters
"Street Scene" is a poignant exploration of social dynamics set against the backdrop of a New York tenement, focusing on the lives of its residents, particularly the Maurrant family. Central to the narrative is Rose Maurrant, who grapples with her tumultuous family life and the harsh realities of her environment. Despite the offers of assistance from Harry Easter, her employer, and Sam Kaplan, a law student who harbors feelings for her, Rose ultimately chooses independence over accepting help, reflecting a desire for autonomy amidst chaos.
Frank Maurrant, Rose's father, presents a facade of familial devotion while committing an unforgivable act—murdering his wife, Anna, and her lover. This shocking event catalyzes Rose's rejection of familial ties and societal expectations, as she contemplates leaving New York altogether. Sam Kaplan, who sympathizes with Rose's struggles, represents a glimmer of hope for the future, although Rose's current feelings are ambiguous. Through these characters, "Street Scene" delves into themes of love, loss, and the longing for freedom, highlighting the complexities of human relationships in a challenging urban landscape. The interplay of their lives reflects broader societal issues, inviting readers to explore the depths of the characters' experiences and their implications for personal identity.
Street Scene: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Elmer Rice
First published: 1929
Genre: Play
Locale: New York
Plot: Social realism
Time: 1929
Rose Maurrant, the daughter of New York tenement dwellers. She is escorted home by her employer, Harry Easter, who wants to establish her in an apartment and remove her from poverty, an offer that she refuses. Sam Kaplan appears to sympathize with her family problems. Later, Rose tells his sister that she is only slightly attracted to Sam. The next morning, she returns to find that her father has killed her mother and her mother's lover. Rejecting the proffered help of Easter and of Sam, Rose prepares to leave New York, for she feels that no person should belong to another. Perhaps later something will develop for Sam and her.
Frank Maurrant, her father, a stagehand. Although he extols family happiness and propriety, he kills his wife and her lover.
Anna Maurrant, his wife. Her husband kills her and her lover.
Harry Easter, the manager of the office in which Rose works. He tries to establish her in an apartment, but she refuses his offer as well as his proffered help after her mother's murder.
Sam Kaplan, a law student in love with Rose. She will not accept his love, but she holds out a faint hope for the future when they are older and wiser.
Shirley Kaplan, Sam's sister.
Abe Kaplan, Sam's father.