The Cocktail Party
204
Play • Fiction
London, England • 1940s
1950
Adult
18+ years
The Cocktail Party follows a troubled married couple, Edward and Lavinia, who, with the help of a mysterious therapist named Sir Henry Harcourt-Reilly, attempt to mend their fractured relationship after Lavinia briefly leaves. Through a series of encounters with the therapist and other guests at a cocktail party, the couple confronts their issues, while another character, Celia, embarks on a journey seeking personal fulfillment.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dark
Unnerving
Bittersweet
2,795 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Cocktail Party by T. S. Eliot receives praise for its sharp wit, sophisticated dialogue, and exploration of modern existential crises. Critics commend its sophisticated treatment of personal and social issues, though some find the abstract themes and dense language challenging. A complex yet rewarding read, it continues to spark debate and analysis.
Readers who enjoy The Cocktail Party by T. S. Eliot likely appreciate modernist literature and philosophical drama. Fans of Eliot’s earlier work or those who enjoy plays with themes of existential turmoil, akin to Sartre’s No Exit, would relish this. This intellectually stimulating drama blends humor with deep social commentary.
2,795 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Cocktail Party premiered in 1949 and represents one of T. S. Eliot's successful ventures into the realm of modern drama, winning the Tony Award for Best Play in 1950.
Eliot drew inspiration from Euripides' play Alcestis for crafting the themes and structure of The Cocktail Party.
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Alec Guinness played the role of the Unidentified Guest in the original London production, bringing star power to Eliot's work and contributing to its early acclaim.
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204
Play • Fiction
London, England • 1940s
1950
Adult
18+ years
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