The Weakness of Male Characters in 20th Century British Drama

Based on the social, political, and cultural changes, gender roles have also changed. The changes in real life are reflected in the plays by many male playwrights in 20th century. The book deals with masculinity that is in crisis today. The male weakness very often leads to an addiction to cigarettes, alcohol, sex, and games. The first part deals with three Irish plays which show the playboy, the captain and the lieutenant who fail in fulfilling their roles because they are unable to face reality. In the second part three socio-psychological plays show the men who are attracted and scared of women at the same time and do not know how to deal with it. In the third part three political plays portray men who suffer from the lack of interest and are indifferent towards the system. They neither have the need, nor the courage to fight for their beliefs and ideals. The last part explains how women slowly take over positions that used to be reserved for men. Men need to take time to accept this change.