Summary

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

Act I

The curtain rises on The Shrike in a bustling city psychiatric hospital. Ann Downs steps forward, burdened with the weight of her husband Jim's desperate attempt to end his life by swallowing a handful of pills. In time, Jim emerges from the shadows of unconsciousness, confessing the gravity of his actions. Dr. Kramer, the vigilant physician on duty, instructs nurse Miss Hansen to keep a watchful eye on him for the critical next forty-eight hours. When Miss Hansen worries about Ann's ability to afford such care, Ann firmly insists, "Jim must have whatever is necessary." Ann discloses to the doctor that she discovered him in his apartment, revealing the chasm that now exists between them as a separated couple.

As dawn breaks, Miss Cardell notices Ann’s unwavering vigil at Jim’s side and encourages her to rest. Yet, Ann resolutely refuses to leave. In her discussion with Dr. Barrow, a psychiatrist, Ann recounts Jim’s haunting question upon regaining consciousness: "why didn’t you let me die?" Barrow advises her to glean all she can from Jim’s unguarded thoughts, as his conscious mind gradually constructs barriers once more. To unravel the mystery of Jim's despair, Ann recalls his triumph as a Broadway director, a success now eclipsed by an unyielding struggle to find work.

In a heart-to-heart with Dr. Barrow, Jim bares his soul, declaring his desire to die stems from a belief that he is "no good," feels "stuck in a rut," and considers himself too old to taste success again. When Ann professes her love, Jim cautions her, stating he does not crave her affection. Yet, in a private exchange with Barrow, Ann remains convinced of Jim's love for her.

Two days hence, Jim finds himself sitting up, driven by a burning desire to leave the hospital. He confides in Grosberg, an attendant, entrusting him with a letter to Charlotte, his paramour. Ann brings news of a theater job opportunity, igniting a spark of hope and a fervor to heal swiftly. However, Ann fears his impatience may be detrimental. When Jim implores Barrow for an early discharge to pursue the job, the doctor decides to confer with fellow psychiatrists.

In a secluded conversation, Jim informs Ann that once discharged, he will not return to her, a topic she refuses to entertain. Dr. Kramer assures Jim of his imminent recovery, attributing his swift progress to Ann's support. Later, discussions between Dr. Barrow, Dr. Schlesinger, and Ann reveal her uncertainty about Jim's readiness to leave. She observes erratic behavior in his gaze and speech, though specifics elude her memory. When pondering Jim's fate if the job falls through, Schlesinger somberly concludes that failure would surely worsen his state.

Dr. Schlesinger mentions a persistent caller named Charlotte, eager to see Jim. Upon learning her identity, he deems it too stressful for Jim to meet her. Dr. Kramer foretells Jim's discharge by Monday.

Dialogues between Ann and Dr. Schlesinger delve deeper into her relationship with Jim. When Jim later confides to the doctor about his attempted suicide, he labels his life as "hopeless." He asserts no intention to reunite with Ann post-discharge. As questions turn intimate concerning Ann and Charlotte, Jim clams up, prompting a potential delay in his release and a transfer to a convalescent ward. The prospect leaves Jim disoriented and, upon realizing Ann sides with the doctors, a frigid realization courses through him.

Act II

Jim is ushered into Ward One, where he encounters fellow patients. During an evaluation, Dr. Bellman reveals to a startled Jim his reputation for being "belligerent and nasty." Their conversation veers towards his relationship with...

(This entire section contains 1061 words.)

Unlock this Study Guide Now

Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.

Get 48 Hours Free Access

Ann before Jim critiques a standard psychological test. When he inquires about going home, the doctor replies it won't be any time soon.

Following a scuffle between two ward mates that lands one in Ward Seven for the violent, student nurse Miss Wingate hands Jim a telegram from Charlotte. She warns him that unless he severs ties with her, he may never leave the hospital, explaining his fate lies with Ann.

The following day, a conversation with Ann sows seeds of suspicion in Jim's mind that she wishes to keep him confined. He asks her to contact a psychiatrist friend to aid in his release. Agreeing, Ann then requests he sign over his paycheck to settle his debts. She later confides in Dr. Bellman about her fears of Jim's commitment, vowing to care for him if released, yet admitting doubts about his readiness. Days pass, and Jim's mounting frustration erupts against his peers, leading an attendant to threaten relocation to Ward Seven.

Act III

A Surprising Visit

A couple of days later, Harry Downs arrives, accompanied by Ann, to visit his brother Jim, who finds himself in a rather awkward predicament. Ann confesses to having disconnected Jim’s phone line, with all calls now being redirected to her. She shares that she attempted to reach out to Jim's psychiatrist friend, only to find him unwilling to step into the situation. Harry goes on to explain to Jim that, due to certain things he’s done and said, the doctors now believe he should remain under hospital care.

A Difficult Conversation

In a private exchange, Harry tells Jim that his ticket out of the hospital is to appease the doctors by saying what they wish to hear, including expressing love for Ann and a desire to return to her. Harry reveals that Ann has leased his apartment to someone else, and all his possessions have been relocated to her place. Jim muses about possibly moving back in with Ann just for the time being, but Harry warns him that once under her roof, Ann holds the power to have him recommitted whenever she chooses.

The Model Patient

Fast forward four days, and Jim has transformed into the ideal patient. When meeting with the doctors, he manages to persuade them of his genuine affection for Ann and his wish to mend their relationship. Later, Jim professes his love for Ann in front of both her and Harry, apologizing for his past behavior. Ann assures the doctors of Jim's sincerity, and they conclude he's ready to be discharged. Upon hearing the decision, Jim contacts Ann to arrange for her to pick him up. Yet, once the phone call ends, he breaks down in tears, realizing he is truly ‘trapped.’

Next

Themes

Loading...