The Effect Of Gamma Rays On Man-In-The-Moon Marigolds Pdf
“The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds” is a play written by Paul Zindel that was first produced in 1965. It tells the story of a dysfunctional family and how the youngest member, Tillie, finds solace in her science project on the effect of gamma rays on marigold seeds. The play won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1971 and has since become a classic in American theater.
The Plot
The play is set in Beatrice’s dilapidated home, where she lives with her two daughters, Ruth and Tillie. Beatrice is a bitter and abusive woman who constantly belittles her daughters, while Ruth is a rebellious teenager who has dropped out of school. Tillie is the youngest and the only one who finds solace in science, specifically in her science project on the effect of gamma rays on marigold seeds.
As the play progresses, we see the family’s dysfunction escalate. Beatrice’s mental health deteriorates, and she becomes more abusive towards her daughters. Ruth becomes pregnant and contemplates running away with her boyfriend, while Tillie’s science project becomes the only thing she has control over.
In the final scene, Tillie presents her science project at a school science fair and wins first prize. However, her victory is bittersweet as she realizes that she cannot escape her family’s dysfunction and must continue living with them.
The Characters
The play has four main characters:
- Beatrice: A bitter and abusive woman who constantly belittles her daughters.
- Ruth: Beatrice’s rebellious teenage daughter who has dropped out of school.
- Tillie: Beatrice’s youngest daughter who finds solace in science.
- Janice Vickery: Tillie’s science teacher who encourages her to pursue her interests in science.
Other minor characters include Nanny, a boarder in the family’s home, and Mr. Goodman, the science fair judge.
The Themes
“The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds” deals with several themes:
- Familial Dysfunction: The play explores the idea of a dysfunctional family and how it affects its members.
- Control: Tillie’s science project on the effect of gamma rays on marigold seeds becomes the only thing she has control over in her life.
- Power: Beatrice uses her power to belittle and abuse her daughters, while Tillie uses her science project to gain power over her life.
- Escape: The play shows the characters attempting to escape their circumstances, but ultimately failing to do so.
The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds PDF
“The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds” is available as a PDF online. Many websites offer the play in PDF format for free, while others charge a fee. The PDF is a convenient way to read the play on any device and is ideal for students who want to study the play.
When searching for the play in PDF format, it is important to ensure that the website offering the download is safe and legitimate. Some websites may offer malware or viruses along with the PDF download, which can harm your device.
Conclusion
“The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds” is a classic play that explores themes of familial dysfunction, control, power, and escape. The play’s use of science as a metaphor for control and power makes it unique and memorable.
For those interested in reading the play, the PDF format is a great option. Just be sure to download it from a safe and legitimate website.