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The Witching Hour and Other Plays: A Literary Exploration of Female Power, Identity, and the Supernatural

Bob Cooper

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Published in The Witching Hour And Other Plays By Nina Sadur (Reference Library Of Jewish Intellectual History)

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Book Cover Of 'The Witching Hour And Other Plays' By Nina Sadur, Featuring A Mysterious Woman's Face Surrounded By Vines And Stars The Witching Hour And Other Plays By Nina Sadur (Reference Library Of Jewish Intellectual History)

Nina Sadur's captivating collection of plays, "The Witching Hour and Other Plays," invites readers into an extraordinary realm where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. This anthology showcases Sadur's unique voice as a groundbreaking female playwright, exploring themes of female empowerment, Jewish identity, and the transformative power of the supernatural.

The Witching Hour and Other Plays by Nina Sadur (Reference Library of Jewish Intellectual History)

by Lope de Vega

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1652 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	190 pages

Delving into Sadur's Literary Universe

Nina Sadur, born in 1950, is an American playwright, director, and professor who has made a significant contribution to contemporary theater. Known for her bold and experimental style, Sadur's works often challenge conventional narratives and delve into the complexities of human relationships.

"The Witching Hour and Other Plays" brings together a selection of Sadur's most acclaimed works, including:

The Witching Hour: A haunting and evocative tale inspired by the witch trials of the 17th century, exploring the persecution of women and the search for self-expression.
Disappearing Moon: A poignant exploration of Jewish identity, memory, and the Holocaust, told through the lens of a young woman's dreams.
Old Times: A psychological thriller that blurs the lines between past and present, as two women confront their shared history.
A White Rose: A surreal and lyrical play that delves into the themes of love, loss, and the power of music.
Gray's Anatomy: A darkly comic and thought-provoking examination of gender roles and the medical profession.

Exploring Themes of Female Empowerment

Throughout her plays, Sadur consistently gives voice to strong and complex female characters who defy societal expectations and embrace their own power. In "The Witching Hour," for instance, the women of a New England village stand up to the Puritan patriarchy, reclaiming their agency and challenging the dominant narrative.

Sadur's plays also explore the intersections of female identity and Jewish experience. In "Disappearing Moon," a young woman grappling with her Holocaust heritage finds solace in the stories and traditions of her ancestors.

Unveiling the Supernatural and the Fantastical

The supernatural and magical realism play a pivotal role in Sadur's works. In "The Witching Hour," witchcraft becomes a symbol of female rebellion and the power of the oppressed. "Disappearing Moon" weaves dreamscapes and mythical figures into the fabric of its narrative.

Sadur's use of the supernatural transcends mere fantasy, it transforms into a lens through which she explores human emotions and the complexities of existence.

Critical Acclaim and Artistic Significance

"The Witching Hour and Other Plays" has garnered widespread critical acclaim and recognition for its innovative storytelling and powerful exploration of gender, identity, and the supernatural. Sadur's unique voice and experimental style have earned her a reputation as one of the most important and influential contemporary playwrights.

The collection has been widely studied and performed by theater companies and students around the world, sparking discussions on feminism, jüdischkeit, and the nature of reality.

Nina Sadur's "The Witching Hour and Other Plays" is a groundbreaking collection that invites readers and theatergoers to immerse themselves in a world of female empowerment, Jewish identity, and the supernatural. Sadur's bold and innovative style challenges conventional narratives, provokes thought, and leaves a lasting impact.

Whether you are a fan of theater, literature, or simply seeking a thought-provoking and immersive experience, "The Witching Hour and Other Plays" is a must-read that will captivate and inspire.

The Witching Hour and Other Plays by Nina Sadur (Reference Library of Jewish Intellectual History)

by Lope de Vega

4.5 out of 5