Overview
Synopsis
A trilogy of tragic plays inspired by Aeschylus’ Oresteia trilogy, Mourning Becomes Electra is Eugene O’Neill’s tragic masterpiece, rivaled only by Long Day’s Journey Into Night. Set in New England at the time of the American Civil War, Mourning Becomes Electra follows the cursed and corrupt Mannon family. Lavinia Mannon, at odds with her mother Christine, is waiting for her father, General Ezra Mannon, to return from the war, which is nearing its end. But as the United States is beginning its reconciliation, Lavinia’s family is fracturing under the arrogance of the General, the duplicity of Christine, and the hatred of Lavinia. Deep family secrets rise to the surface, and in the turmoil and torment, murder seems to be the only answer. A tapestry of psychological conflict, Mourning Becomes Electra investigates not only the causes of familial tragedy, but also the effects of revenge and retribution on its survivors.
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Context
Eugene O’Neill started drafting his ideas for Mourning Becomes Electra as early as 1926, searching for a way to tell a distinctly American story of psychological drama and fate. Not until 1928 did he find his inspiration in the ancient Greek tragic structure of Aeschylus’ Oresteia (Agamemnon, The Libation Bearers, The Eumenides) - the story of the downfall of the house of Atreus.
But this was not going to be a literal retelling of Electra’s story set against the American Civil War.
to read the context for Mourning Becomes Electra and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Plot
Part One: Homecoming
It is April 1865 in New England at the Mannon estate. The family’s gardner, Seth Beckwith, enters with his friend Amos Ames, Amos’ wife Louisa, and Louisa’s cousin Minnie. He’s been given permission (by Lavinia) to give the visitors a tour of the house, but they have to stay out of sight of Christine Mannon, the lady of the house, who has just returned from New York. When Lavinia appears, Seth has a brief conversation with her, as he is curious about Captain Adam
to read the plot for Mourning Becomes Electra and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Characters
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Guide Written By:
Cindi Calhoun
Theatre teacher, director, writer, and seamstress