Extremities (play)

Extremities is a 1982 play by William Mastrosimone. It focuses on a young woman, Marjorie, who is brutally attacked in her home. The play explores themes of trauma, revenge, and the complexities of justice. Marjorie confronts her attacker, Raul, after he breaks into her home, and subsequently subdues and holds him captive, ultimately facing a difficult moral and legal dilemma about what to do with him.

Plot Summary

The play unfolds primarily in Marjorie's apartment. After a violent attack, Marjorie gains the upper hand over her attacker, Raul. She ties him up and engages in a tense power struggle with him, both physically and psychologically. The play delves into their back-and-forth, exploring their pasts and motivations, as Marjorie wrestles with her options and the potential repercussions of her actions. The arrival of the police adds another layer of complexity to the situation, forcing Marjorie to make crucial decisions in the face of an uncertain future.

Themes

• Trauma and its aftermath: The play vividly portrays the immediate and lasting impact of violent assault on Marjorie. It examines the physical and psychological scars left behind and the struggle for healing and recovery.

• Revenge vs. Justice: A central conflict is Marjorie's internal struggle between seeking personal revenge and pursuing justice through the legal system. The play questions the effectiveness and limitations of both.

• Power dynamics: The play explores the shifting power dynamics between Marjorie and Raul, showcasing how the tables are turned from victim to captor. This reversal allows for examination of the complexities of dominance and control.

• Gender and Violence: ''Extremities'' tackles the issue of violence against women, portraying the experience of assault and its devastating consequences.

• Moral ambiguity: The play avoids easy answers, presenting a morally ambiguous situation where the characters' actions are open to interpretation and debate.

Characters

• Marjorie: The young woman who is attacked and subsequently holds her attacker captive.
• Raul: Marjorie's attacker.
• Terry: A friend of Marjorie's who provides support and assistance.
• Police Officer: The officer who eventually arrives at the apartment.

Critical Reception and Legacy

''Extremities'' received mixed reviews upon its release, with some praising its powerful portrayal of trauma and female empowerment while others criticized its potentially controversial depiction of violence and justice. However, the play remains relevant, continuing to spark discussions about assault, self-defense, and the complexities of the legal system. Its enduring appeal lies in its provocative exploration of intense emotional states and challenging moral dilemmas.

Further Reading

• Mastrosimone, William. Extremities. (Publication details would be added here, referencing the specific edition)