Study Questions and Essay Topics
Study Questions
Discuss the meaning and effects of the play's title.
Why is Winnie's song ("I Love You So") so important to her? What does it do for her?
How is religion used in the play? Compare Winnie's and Willie's differing attitudes toward God.
Why does Winnie perform her rituals? Does Willie engage in any? Why or why not?
Does Willie need Winnie in any way, does he need anything, or is he entirely self-sufficient?
Discuss Beckett's use of pauses and silences.
How does humor function in the play, both for the audience and for the characters?
Why does Winnie tell the stories of Mildred and Shower and his fiancée? Why does she feel as if she is being watched?
