Topics for Further Study

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

While expressionism is most commonly associated with an art movement, it also significantly influences drama and fiction. Explore another expressionistic piece, whether in visual art or literature. Compare and contrast this piece with Treadwell’s Machinal. How does the application of expressionism differ across these art forms? Additionally, consider whether the gender of the artist, author, or playwright affects their use of expressionism.

Read the book A Giacometti Portrait by James Lord. Based on your understanding of expressionism, determine whether Giacometti can be considered an expressionist artist. Explain your reasoning. Then, apply the same criteria to James Lord. Is Lord an expressionist? Provide your reasoning for this as well.

Treadwell uses the Snyder-Gray murder trial as the basis for her expressionistic drama. Choose a historical or personal moment and create your own short expressionistic piece. Focus on conveying your subjective emotional response to the moment rather than on realism.

Under the guise of expressionism, Treadwell vividly expresses her views on feminism and the male-dominated society of the early twentieth century. Machinal tells the story of a woman ensnared in a male-driven social system. Compare and contrast Helen’s entrapment with the main character in Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper.” Are there other works of drama or fiction where characters, male or female, are symbolically or realistically trapped by societal norms?

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Next

What Do I Read Next?

Loading...