David Mamet's play Oleanna depicts the deteriorating relationship between a university professor, John, and his student, Carol, after she accuses him of sexual harassment, leading to a power struggle that jeopardizes John's career and livelihood.

Unnerving

Challenging

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.0

9,814 ratings

59%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Review Roundup

David Mamet's Oleanna has garnered acclaim for its sharp dialogue and intense exploration of power dynamics within academia. Critics praise its provocative storytelling and ability to provoke discussion, though some feel its characters lack depth and its ending is unsatisfying. Overall, Oleanna is a compelling yet polarizing piece that leaves a lasting impact.

Who Should Read Oleanna?

A reader who would enjoy Oleanna by David Mamet is likely interested in psychological dramas and intense academic settings. They may appreciate works that explore themes of power dynamics and miscommunication. Fans of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? or J.M. Coetzee’s Disgrace may find this play compelling.

4.0

9,814 ratings

59%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Oleanna, written by David Mamet, premiered in 1992 and stirred considerable controversy and discussion due to its intense themes of power dynamics and gender relations.

The play was adapted into a film in 1994, directed by David Mamet himself, maintaining the original stage cast for the screen adaptation.

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Book Details

Pages

Format

Play • Fiction

Genre

Education

•

American Literature

•

Dramatic Literature

Setting

College Campus • 1990s