A review by jennifermreads
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albee

dark emotional sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

After reading Patrick Stewart’s memoir Making It So and reading about his turn as George, I was reminded that I had never read Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? I decided to make it one of my “classic reads of 2024.”

As horrifying as it is to watch Martha and George’s marriage (and sanity?) crumble, and for them to pick and poke at each other to stoke annoyance, this is one of those dark scenes that is impossible to look away from. I can see why the roles of George and Martha would be highly sought after by actors: what wild, challenging characters to bring to life. 
As much as I would like to see a theatrical production, I’m not sure I could stomach it. I fear all the mind games, drinking, gripping at each other, lies, and, frankly, Honey’s persistent vomiting would plunge me into a dark place—and I just do not want to go there. 
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