PROBLEM PLAY

 PROBLEM PLAY

 

Introduction
The term Problem Play refers to a type of drama that explores serious social, moral, or political issues. These plays raise questions rather than offering simple answers. They reflect the conflicts of their time and encourage the audience to think critically. Though the term became popular with modern playwrights like Henrik Ibsen and George Bernard Shaw, William Shakespeare also wrote plays that can be called problem plays. These works blend elements of comedy and tragedy and often avoid clear resolutions. They do not fit neatly into any one category.

 

Origin of the Term

The term Problem Play was first used in the late 19th century. It described modern plays that dealt with contemporary social problems like marriage, poverty, or women’s rights. Later, critics also applied the term to some of Shakespeare’s plays. These plays present characters in complex moral situations. They deal with serious themes but include comic scenes too. Because of their mixed tone and unresolved endings, they are difficult to classify.

 

Characteristics of a Problem Play

Problem plays usually have certain features. First, they focus on a central issue—something that affects society deeply. This issue may not be solved in the play. Second, they avoid black-and-white morality. Characters are not purely good or evil. Instead, they are complex, with strengths and flaws. Third, the ending is often open or uncomfortable. It may not bring complete justice or peace. Finally, the tone shifts between serious and light moments. These plays may start like a comedy but end in a darker mood.

 

Shakespeare’s Problem Plays

Scholars often describe three of Shakespeare’s plays as problem plays: Measure for Measure, All’s Well That Ends Well, and Troilus and Cressida. Each of these explores difficult moral issues.

 

In Measure for Measure, the main theme is justice and mercy. The play shows how power can be misused. Angelo, who seems strict and righteous, is revealed to be corrupt. The Duke’s actions raise questions about morality and leadership. The play ends with several marriages, but they feel forced and unresolved.

 

All’s Well That Ends Well explores love and social class. Helena, a poor but clever woman, wins the love of Bertram, a nobleman. Bertram, however, rejects her. The story ends with Helena’s clever trick forcing him to accept her. But the ending feels uneasy, as true love does not seem to grow naturally between them.

 

In Troilus and Cressida, Shakespeare questions the values of war and heroism. The characters from the Trojan War are not noble or heroic. They are selfish, weak, or foolish. Love and loyalty are also questioned. The play does not have a happy ending. It shows how ideals break down in the real world.

 

Modern Problem Plays

Later playwrights like Ibsen and Shaw developed the problem play further. Ibsen’s A Doll’s House questions the roles of women in marriage. Shaw’s Mrs. Warren’s Profession explores prostitution and society’s hypocrisy. These plays use realistic dialogue and characters. They try to make the audience think, not just feel.

 

Purpose and Impact

Problem plays are not written to entertain alone. Their main goal is to raise awareness. They show that life is full of grey areas. They help people see the other side of issues. These plays make audiences question what they believe. Because of this, they remain relevant in every age. Even if times change, the questions they raise stay important.

 

Conclusion
Problem plays are powerful because they reflect real-life struggles. They avoid easy answers and ask the audience to think. Shakespeare’s problem plays combine comedy and tragedy in unique ways. Modern problem plays carry on this tradition by dealing with the pressing issues of their own times. Whether old or new, problem plays remind us that drama can be more than entertainment—it can be a mirror to society.

 

REFERENCE:
Long, William J. English Literature: Its History and Its Significance for the English-Speaking World. Anboco, 2016.
Nicoll, Allardyce. British Drama.
Shakespeare, William. Measure for Measure, All’s Well That Ends Well, Troilus and Cressida.

 

 

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