The Threepenny Opera | Essays and Criticism

  • Social Constructs of Brecht's Revisions and Political Ideals

    In this essay, Hamilton examines the social constructs of Brecht's revisions to The Beggar's Opera and how these revisions played into his political ideals.

  • The Averted Crucifixion of Macheath

    Dukore points out several Biblical references in The Threepenny Opera, citing both obvious allusions and ones that are cloaked in metaphoric language. Of the latter, Dukore argues that there are numerous examples that compare the character Macheath to Jesus Christ.

  • Lies like Truth: Theatre Reviews and Essays

    In this brief review, Clurman finds in The Threepenny Opera an appeal that audiences can trace to historic events such as the Great Depression as well as more personal themes such as regret and loss.