Facing Death
Introduction
"Facing Death" is a one-act play by August Strindberg. It tells the story of a father’s struggle to care for his daughters in the face of poverty. The play explores deep emotions, sacrifice, and the meaning of family.
Short Summary
Monsieur Durand, a widowed father, lives with his three daughters in poverty. Unable to provide for them, he faces a difficult choice. The play shows his love, pain, and the sacrifices he makes for his family.
Detailed Summary
Monsieur Durand once worked as a railway employee, but after losing his job, he struggles to support his three daughters. Their home is filled with worry and sadness. The daughters, Annette, Therese, and Jeanne, each react differently to their situation. Annette is hopeful, Therese is practical, and Jeanne is sensitive. Durand feels the weight of responsibility and is haunted by his inability to provide for them.
As bills pile up and food becomes scarce, Durand’s despair grows. He tries to hide his pain from his daughters, but they sense his sadness. The family’s conversations reveal their love for each other, but also their fears about the future. Durand’s thoughts turn to his life insurance policy, which could help his daughters if he were gone. He struggles with the idea of sacrificing himself so they can have a better life.
In the end, Durand’s actions are driven by love and hope for his children. The play ends on a note of sadness, but also shows the strength of family bonds. It asks us to think about the meaning of sacrifice and the courage it takes to face hard times. The story is touching and easy to understand, making it suitable for students.
Narrative Structure Breakdown
- Exposition: The play introduces Durand and his daughters, setting up their financial struggles.
- Rising Action: Tension grows as debts increase and Durand’s despair deepens.
- Climax: Durand decides to make a great sacrifice for his daughters’ future.
- Falling Action: The daughters react to their father’s actions and realize his love.
- Resolution: The play ends with a message about love, sacrifice, and hope.
Themes & Meanings
- Parental Sacrifice: The story shows how far a parent will go for their children’s happiness.
- Despair and Hope: Even in dark times, hope can guide our actions.
- Family Bonds: Love and support within a family help people face challenges.
Character Sketches
- Monsieur Durand: A caring but troubled father. He is brave, loving, and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for his daughters.
- Annette: The eldest daughter. She is hopeful and tries to keep the family’s spirits up.
- Therese: The practical middle daughter. She faces problems calmly and helps with daily tasks.
- Jeanne: The youngest. Sensitive and emotional, she feels the family’s pain deeply.
Important Vocabulary
- Despair: A feeling of complete hopelessness.
- Sacrifice: Giving up something valuable for someone else.
- Insurance: A way to protect against financial loss.
- Poverty: The state of being very poor.
Exam-Style Questions & Answers
-
Q:
Why does Durand feel hopeless?
A: He cannot provide for his daughters and worries about their future. -
Q:
What is the main theme of the play?
A: Parental sacrifice and the strength of family bonds. -
Q:
How do the daughters react to their situation?
A: Each daughter copes differently, showing hope, practicality, or sensitivity. -
Q:
What lesson can students learn from this play?
A: The importance of love, sacrifice, and hope in difficult times. -
Q:
How does the play end?
A: With a message about the courage to face hardship and the power of family love.
PDF Download Note
To download this summary, use your browser’s print option and select “Save as PDF.”