The Good Woman of Setzuan

Discuss the goodwoman of setzuan as a modern play

The goodwoman of setzuan

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I see modern ideas from a gender perspective. In order to be a true capitalist capable of getting what she wants, Shen Te must “become” Shui Ta, a male alter ego.

The issue of gender comes to the forefront during Scene 4, when Yang Sun interacts with Shui Ta in a completely different manner than that in which he interacts with Shen Te. Shui Ta defends his cousin (himself) by saying, "She is a human being, sir! And not devoid of common sense!" However, Yang Sun answers, "Shen Te is a woman: she is devoid of common sense. I only have to lay my hand on her shoulder, and church bells ring."