"Lazarus Laughed (1925-26): A Play for an Imaginative Theatre" is a visionary dramatic work by Nobel Prize-winning playwright Eugene O'Neill. Centered on the biblical figure of Lazarus following his resurrection, the play explores the profound philosophical shift that occurs when a human being no longer fears death. Upon returning from the grave, Lazarus is filled with a divine, infectious laughter, proclaiming to a world gripped by dread that death is an illusion and only eternal life exists.
This ambitious play follows Lazarus's journey as his message of joy spreads, eventually bringing him into direct conflict with the power of imperial Rome and the Emperor Tiberius. O'Neill employs bold, expressionistic techniques, including the use of hundreds of masked characters and rhythmic choral chants, to create a monumental theatrical experience. "Lazarus Laughed" stands as one of O'Neill's most experimental and philosophical plays, challenging the audience to confront their own mortality and the nature of belief. It is a powerful exploration of the human spirit's capacity for transcendence and the revolutionary power of joy in the face of tyranny.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.
This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.
As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
