Page 334 - DENG403_BRITISH_DRAMA

British Drama Jayatee Bhattacharya, Lovely Professional University

Notes Unit 30: Arnold Wesker—Introduction to the
Author and the Text

CONTENTS
Objectives
Introduction

30.1 Arnold Wesker—Introduction

30.1.1 Life and Career
30.1.2 Works

30.2 Roots—Introduction to the Text

30.3 Summary
30.4 Keywords

30.5 Review Questions
30.6 Further Readings

Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:
• Illustrate the biographical sketch of Arnold Wesker;
• Elaborate the literary works of Arnold Wesker;
• Explain that Root is one of the play of Arnold Wesker Chicken soup trilogy;
• Elucidate that Root is a kitchen sink drama
• Critically evaluate the play Root;
• Discuss the nature of the play.

Introduction

Arnold Wesker, considered one of the key figures in 20th Century drama, is the author of 44 plays,
4 volumes of short stories, 2 volumes of essays, an autobiography, a book on journalism, a children’s
book, extensive journalism, poetry and other assorted writings. His plays have been translated into
18 languages, and performed worldwide. 2002 celebrated his 70th birthday, 2006 celebrated his
knighthood for services to drama. 2008 celebrates his 50th year as a playwright. In this unit details
of his work with summaries and synopses, his essays, lectures and journalism, the books written
about him, and his life has been depicted.
Roots is the second play by Arnold Wesker in The Wesker Trilogy. The first part is Chicken Soup with
Barley and the final play I’m Talking about Jerusalem. Roots focuses on Beatie Bryant as she makes the
transition from being an uneducated working-class woman obsessed with Ronnie, her unseen liberal

328 LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY