VOLATILE MASCULINITY IN DAVID MAMET’S SPEED-THE-PLOW
VOLATILE MASCULINITY IN DAVID MAMET’S SPEED-THE-PLOW

Summary/Abstract: David Mamet is one of the most important playwrights, scriptwriters, directors and producers of modern-day America. One of his distinctive plays, Speed-the-Plow begins with an idea of sensational film of two friends, Bobby Gould, recently promoted to head of production of a major Hollywood studio, and his associate Charlie Fox, having news that an important movie star is interested in making a movie with him. While discussing, they come to agree it would be a financial success. Yet, things get out of hands with interference of their secretary Karen. Bobby Gould is confused with the production of whose script must be shot. With the help of Madonna’s acting, it became very popular in Broadway in the very short time. The characters taking their places in the capitalist system and attempting to realize American dream in Mamet’s plays have no chance to win in this psychological and sociological battles. Karen and Charlie Fox try to take hold of Bobby Gould and manipulate him in this play. there is a power struggle between Charlie and Karen symbolizing masculinity and femininity. In this paper, this power struggle between man and woman will be discussed.

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