1. Our Town
Thornton Wilder

2. Playwright Thornton Wilder
Received degree from Yale in 1920; began writing and teaching afterwards
Wrote five plays, many shorter plays, seven novels, and an Alfred Hitchcock screenplay
Remembered for his bold theatrical experimentation, his faith, optimism, and fondness for humanity

3. Background Written in 1938 Minimal Props Setting: Grover's Corner, NH
*Grover’s Corner represents ALL towns
Play:
*Follows the age old cycle of birth, love, and death.
Act 1: Daily Life
Act 2: Love and Marriage
Act 3: Death and Dying

4. Themes Serves as a microcosm of the world at large
Creates a model of life that includes both joy and tragedy
Appreciate life while you are living it
Little things in life are really big things
Taking life for granted/Carpe Diem

5. Author’s Style
Breaking the fourth wall by addressing the audience (Stage Manager)
Cast members were dispersed among the audience
No props, scenery, or elaborate costuming
No plot driven

6. Video on Our Town