If you’re an American student, chances are you’ve heard of the play “Glengarry Glen Ross.” Written by David Mamet and first staged in 1982, it has since become a classic piece of American theatre. But what is the play really about?
The plot centers around four salesmen who are selling unnecessary real estate to unsuspecting customers. Set in the 1980s, the play examines themes such as competition, desperation, and survival in an unforgiving business world. As the play progresses, tensions mount between the salesmen as they fight for their jobs and their livelihoods. It is a dark comedy that combines humor with deeper insights into human nature.
The characters in “Glengarry Glen Ross” are all distinct and memorable. The four salesmen—Ricky Roma, Shelley “the Machine” Levene, Dave Moss, and George Aaronow—are all trying to survive in a cutthroat business world with varying degrees of success. Ricky Roma is by far the most successful salesman; he is confident, aggressive, and determined to make his sale at any cost. Shelley Levene is a veteran salesman who has fallen on hard times; he will do anything to make one last big sale before his career ends in failure. Dave Moss is an ambitious schemer who often takes risks that could put him at odds with his coworkers or put him in legal trouble. George Aaronow is more reserved than the other three; he is content with his place but still wants to make some sales on his own terms.
