After reading the play I have come to the conclusion that Eve isn’t as bad as we like to make her out to be. In fact, it seems as though we’ve placed Adam on a pedestal and turned a blind eye to all the things he has done.
Even though, it might seem as though it is Eve who caused Adam to change not only his appearance but the people he chooses to associate himself with. It is Adam who gave her the power to do so. The only way she was able to prey on his weakness was because his will power when it comes to her is next to non-existent. We could argue that he was in love with her, but in the first scene he gave her his jacket so she could spray her number on it. This event is probably looked over as insignificant, however, this event signifies how easily he is willing to give something away.
Why is it that we like to demonize Eve in every aspect? Most of us would say its because she influenced Adam to change. If that's the case then why aren't we demonizing social media, our parents, friends etc? Sure, she might have said some things she shouldn't have, but she never forced him to do anything. We need to keep in mind that he changed for the better. As he has lost weight, he stopped biting his nails, he got a nose jobs and started wearing contacts. All these things have only improved his way of life.
At the end of the day it is Adam who gave Eve the power over him. He was never forced to do anything, he willingly left his friends, and he willingly got the nose job. If anything it is Adam who seems to be lacking morals. Who would leave their friends because someone told them to do so? Eve is not this bad character that we make her seem to be and nor is Adam a victim.
I liked how detailed your argument was. I didn't realize the significance of the scene where Adam gave Eve his jacket, until you pointed it out. I agree that it was Adam that was lacking morals. Good post!
ReplyDeleteI like how you were able to step back from your initial reaction and look at the situation.
ReplyDeleteBut it is troubling that Eve could be so detached from hurting Adam so badly because she wanted to make great art and was uncompromising in trying to make it. Part of me respects that, and part of me is worried by that.
Any way, I hope we can agree Labute's play is great art--it is uncomfortable, makes us think, and brings to light something that beneath the surface. I think the strong female character is an added bonus. I suspect if Eve was a guy and Adam was a girl, we'd take less issue with the manipulation that went on.