Summary and Analysis of "The American Dream"

"The American Dream" is quite a unique play set in the 1960s. The author, Edward Albee attempts to put an interesting point across in his play, and he uses the ideas of materialism, consumerism, and sexuality to define his play. There is a family consisting of Mommy, Daddy, and Grandma. Mommy acts as though she is a self-centered child, but she also, shows a need for superiority. Daddy just puts up with Mommy, and he seems to have feminine qualities rather than masculine. Then there is Grandma. Grandma is the only sincere and kind character in the play; she has a realistic view on life, unlike Mommy and Daddy. Also, there is Mrs. Barker; she plays the role of the controlling woman who is head of multiple organizations. This, in itself, is significant because stereotypically women did not have opportunities like this in the 60s. Finally, there is the Young Man. He represents the new American Dream.

In general, Albee is making fun of American ideas by reversing the stereotypical roles in society in his characters. For instance, Mommy acts as the "head of the household"and Daddy does not. Also, Albee uses Mommy to portray the materialistic side of America because she says, "I can always go shopping."  which supposedly makes everything better (62). Daddy represents the sexual part of the play because he is emasculated, and he has feminine qualities which is not ideal for the American male.

Albee uses a unique style within his writing. He uses a great amount of repetition during the play, which, I believe, helps him get his point across. One line that is significant because of its repetition is Grandma saying, "The American Dream!" about the Young Man (108). Grandma is trying to get the family to see the new, fresh, young "American Dream". Grandma, herself, represented the "old American Dream", but she knows that it is time for a new dream to take place.

Edward Albee's sarcastic tone, repetition, and symbolism is significant throughout the play. The play seems slightly absurd at the first read, but when you dig deeper into the meaning, you can see Albee's intentions come across the page.