Three Plays by D. H. Lawrence (Penguin Classics)

Description

“Three Plays: A Collier’s Friday Night; The Daughter-in-Law; The Widowing of Mrs Holroyd” is a collection of three plays by the English writer D. H. Lawrence. These plays are distinct from Lawrence’s more well-known novels and short stories but offer insights into his exploration of social and interpersonal relationships.

1. **A Collier’s Friday Night:** This play provides a glimpse into the lives of coal miners and their families, particularly focusing on the dynamics of a Friday night in a mining community. Lawrence, who himself grew up in a mining town, draws on his own experiences to depict the struggles and joys of working-class life.

2. **The Daughter-in-Law:** This play revolves around the complexities of family relationships, particularly the tensions that arise between a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law. Lawrence delves into themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations in the context of a coal-mining community.

3. **The Widowing of Mrs Holroyd:** This play explores the troubled marriage of Mrs. Holroyd, whose husband is a coal miner. The story unfolds against the backdrop of industrialization and the challenges faced by a working-class family. Lawrence delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of the characters, providing a nuanced portrayal of marital discord.

D. H. Lawrence is best known for his novels such as “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” and “Sons and Lovers,” but his plays offer a different perspective on his exploration of human relationships, societal norms, and the impact of industrialization on communities. “Three Plays” is a testament to Lawrence’s versatility as a writer, showcasing his ability to capture the nuances of working-class life in early 20th-century England.