Class Struggle in Eugene O’Neill’s The Hairy Ape: A Marxist Study

Alaa H. Kateb; Shahad Hassan Wazeej; Furqan Riyadh Faisal

Authors

Alaa H. Kateb University of Kufa, Instructor of Drama in Faculty of Education Department of English. Najaf. Iraq
Shahad Hassan Wazeej University of Kufa, Instructor of Drama in Faculty of Education Department of English. Najaf. Iraq
Furqan Riyadh Faisal University of Kufa, Instructor of Drama in Faculty of Education Department of English. Najaf. Iraq

Keywords:

Eugene O’neill, Hairy Ape, Marxism, Class struggle, Ideology

Abstract

This study aims to explore the theme of class struggle in Eugene O'Neill's The Hairy Ape through the lens of Marxism. The analysis focuses on the interaction between social classes, highlighting the alienation, exploitation, and ideological manipulation faced by the working class within a capitalist society. The significance of this study lies in its ability to clarify the understanding of class dynamics and ideological struggles within the framework of a capitalist society . By applying Marxist methodology, the study sheds light on the systemic forces of alienation and exploitation that define the experiences of the working class, offering valuable insights into how literature reflects social hierarchies. This analysis not only enhances the appreciation of O'Neill's artistic exploration of class and identity but also contributes to broader academic discussions on the intersections of literature, ideology, and power. Ultimately, the study underscores the enduring relevance of class struggle as a lens for interpreting both historical and contemporary social structures.

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