Themes and Characters in *Awake and Sing!*

In the play, Odets contrasts materialistic and idealistic values, highlighting the dominance of materialism and the importance of money in society. It explores the economic hardships of the Great Depression and its impact on families, especially middle-class families.

The Great Depression significantly impacted American families, creating financial insecurity and threatening family unity. It affected all members, from the grandparent to the children, placing immense stress on the structure of the middle-class family and marriage.

Middle-class families were particularly susceptible during the Great Depression due to their economic position and potential for rapid loss of income and social standing.

The economic crisis often strained marriages, particularly as men struggled to maintain traditional roles as primary wage earners. This led to diminished stability and increased challenges related to household maintenance.

Bessie is a key character highlighting the struggle for family survival during the Depression; she represents the effort to maintain family continuity amidst hardship.

Bessie Berger, the matriarch, is driven by materialism and maintaining appearances. She prioritizes money and social status, demanding this from her family members.

Myron, Bessie's husband, struggles to adapt to societal changes. He's unable to comprehend the evolving economic climate and family dynamics.

Ralph, Bessie's son, holds idealistic views, but is frustrated by the materialistic pressures and poverty in his life.

Jacob, the grandfather, commits suicide, hoping to steer his grandson, Ralph, away from capitalist values towards Marxist ideals through an inheritance.

The play highlights how the focus on materialism in American society jeopardizes the human spirit.