Study Questions
Discuss how the form of Mamet's dialogue impacts the meaning, in addition to the content.
What is the role of the telephone in Oleanna?
Look at the physical relationship between John and Carol; what does it say about each character?
There are two dominant interpretations of Carol, one as a manipulator who is faking naïveté in the first act, the other as a girl who makes a tremendous progression from simple frustration to complex anger against John. Discuss the one you think most likely, providing many examples to support your decision.
Discuss John's opinions of the educational system, contrasted with Carol's. What is Mamet trying to achieve by posing these views in opposition?
Explain Carol's final statement: "Yes. That's right."
