key term - Angels in America

Definition

Angels in America is a two-part play by Tony Kushner that addresses the AIDS crisis in the 1980s, exploring themes of politics, identity, and morality in America during this turbulent time. The play weaves together the personal and the political, showcasing how the lives of its characters are affected by societal issues such as homosexuality, race, and religion, while incorporating elements of magical realism to emphasize the struggle for understanding and acceptance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Angels in America premiered in 1991 and consists of two parts: 'Millennium Approaches' and 'Perestroika'.
2. The play won multiple awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Play.
3. Kushner uses a diverse cast of characters, including fictional figures and historical personalities, to represent the spectrum of human experiences during the AIDS crisis.
4. The title reflects the interplay between hope and despair, symbolizing both the angelic aspects of humanity's struggle and the harsh realities faced by those affected by AIDS.
5. The themes of Angels in America resonate with contemporary social issues, including discussions about healthcare, civil rights, and the role of government in personal lives.

Review Questions

• How does Tony Kushner use magical realism in Angels in America to enhance the emotional depth of the characters' experiences?
  • Kushner incorporates magical realism in Angels in America to transcend ordinary reality and give voice to the complex emotional states of his characters. The presence of supernatural elements, such as angels and visions, allows characters to confront their fears, desires, and societal constraints more vividly. This technique creates a rich tapestry that emphasizes the interplay between personal struggles and broader social issues like the AIDS crisis.
• Analyze how Angels in America reflects the political climate of America during the 1980s and 1990s. What specific events or ideologies are critiqued through its narrative?
  • Angels in America critically reflects the political climate of America during the 1980s and 1990s by addressing issues such as the government’s inadequate response to the AIDS epidemic, the rise of conservatism under leaders like Ronald Reagan, and the marginalization of LGBTQ+ communities. Through its narrative, Kushner critiques these ideologies by showcasing characters who grapple with their identities amid societal rejection. The play serves as a mirror to a nation struggling with change while revealing deep-seated prejudices.
• Evaluate how Angels in America serves as both a historical document and a piece of art. In what ways does it connect with ongoing societal challenges faced today?
  • Angels in America functions as both a historical document that captures the essence of the AIDS crisis and a compelling work of art that resonates with contemporary issues. By highlighting struggles around identity, health care access, and social justice, it remains relevant as discussions about LGBTQ+ rights and health disparities continue today. The play’s exploration of human connection amidst chaos encourages audiences to reflect on their own society's challenges, making it an enduring piece that prompts activism and awareness.

Related terms

AIDS Epidemic: A global health crisis that emerged in the late 20th century, primarily affecting gay men and marginalized communities, which serves as a backdrop to the play's themes and character struggles.

Magical Realism:

A literary style that incorporates fantastical elements into realistic settings, used by Kushner to explore complex ideas about existence and human experience in Angels in America.

Political Theatre: A form of theatre that addresses political issues and seeks to provoke thought and action among audiences, which is a central component of Kushner's work.