Everyman

Reading “Everyman” was indubitably a different experience for me than reading Lysistrata. For one thing, the comedic aspect was definitely lacking in this play, however this was necessary because of the somewhat serious tone, and because of the valuable underlying message. “Everyman” is a play that really makes the audience question their morality, and perhaps even frighten them into being better individuals. I think that the author intended to write this play as a wake up call for his or her society and what it was turning in to. I appreciated that the author of the play really tried to keep the plot as simple and minimalistic as possible in order to make sure that the message of the play would hit the audience members square on, without much thought or “reading in between the lines.” Without a doubt, the message that idealizing goods and materialistic possessions will not help you in life (or afterlife) is particularly imperative in today’s society where the world revolves around technology. Another stand out theme to this play is that in the end a man will only end up with his good deeds. I would love to see a modern version of “Everyman” in which the companions that Everyman encounters would be true for contemporary society.  

            Although I did enjoy “Everyman” as an allegory, the play was almost a little too direct and simplistic. I am still waiting to read that play that really makes me think about the intended messages of the playwright.