Date of Award

1985

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Art in Theater

Department

Theatre

First Advisor

Richard Rickert

Second Advisor

Robert Peffers

Abstract

This thesis by Dennis A. Wood presents a critical analysis and creative adaptation of The Woolgatherer by William Mastrosimone, examining how a contemporary play can be reshaped using classical dramatic principles. The study explores the transformation of Mastrosimone’s script through the lens of Aristotelian poetics and other historic and modern theories of drama and play direction. Wood interrogates themes such as obscenity, nature, audience engagement, and moral content, advocating for the use of “masked obscenity” and “unmasked nature” as tools to elevate the play to a more universal and potentially classical form.

The thesis divides its analysis into theoretical and practical components. The theoretical portion draws from ancient and modern dramatic masters—including Aristotle, Horace, Victor Hugo, and Tennessee Williams—to build a framework for effective script adaptation and audience communication. The practical component applies these concepts directly to the adaptation of The Woolgatherer, resulting in a revised script meant to be more morally engaging and imaginatively stimulating, especially for younger or mixed audiences.

Wood argues that by strategically masking vulgar language and grounding the portrayal of nature in realism rather than artificial symbolism, the adapted script can better align with timeless dramatic values. His approach emphasizes audience empathy and director agency, suggesting that directors can reclaim contemporary scripts through thoughtful revision and classical discipline. The adaptation becomes both a creative and analytical experiment, aiming to prove that even modern, modest plays can be transformed into substantial dramatic works with lasting appeal.

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