Valle-Inclan: Plays One

Rating:
Summary: Grotesque-Comedy with Magic Realism
Review: Ramon Valle Inclan's collection of plays is innovative and pave the way for the coming of Brecht, Beckett, and other expressionist writers. However, what is interesting to note is that though it is expressionist in nature, the play's various elements are still naturalistic in nature. This does not produce jarring effects on playgoers and readers not familiar with the expressionist school of thought. The play creates vivid images of interplays of ancient animism, Christianity, and politics. For readers who appreciates Latin American writers, this collection is a good find. The plays Divine Words, Bohemian Lights, and Silver Face are challenges for theater directors and actors. This collection of translations is indeed a good starting point for actors and directors planning to stage a grotesque-comedy play.