Assistant Professor

Dept. of English

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University

 Gorakhpur, U.P., India 

Abstract

A versatile genius, Elmer Rice (1892-1967) magnifies socio-cultural and political events through psychology in his most famous play ‘Dream Girl’. The play ‘Dream Girl’ centers on a single day in the life of Miss Georgina Allerton, the heroine, a middle-aged woman who tries to escape from the stark realities of life. As Georgina's life becomes increasingly intertwined with her fantasy world, the line between reality and illusion becomes blurred. Ultimately she is convinced of the scathing remarks of Clark, and  realizes  that it is unavoidable to face the reality; and day dreaming is a “deceiving elf” In “Dream Girl” Elmer Rice probes the psychological turmoil rooted in the mind of human being. He discovers that man’s freedom, happiness, and peace are not only enervated by social, political and economic slavery but also by emotional disturbances. This research paper is an attempt to delve into Elmer Rice’s play "Dream Girl" by applying a psychoanalytical lens to analyze the socio-cultural and political events portrayed in the play. It is also an attempt to analyze the character’s mental disposition, relationships, motivations, and uncover the socio-cultural and political contexts in the play.

Keywords: Psychoanalytical, Reality, Illusion, Socio-cultural, Political events, Emotional disturbances, Deceiving elf.

Introduction

Elmer Rice's "Dream Girl" delves into several psychological aspects and socio-cultural elements that add depth and richness to the play. Psychologically, the play explores the human desire for escapism and the creation of intricate fantasies. Georgiana, the protagonist, embodies this concept as she assumes various identities to fulfill the romantic ideals of those around her. This examination of multiple personas creates an intriguing exploration of identity, highlighting the psychological complexity behind the yearning for self-fulfillment and the lengths one may go to achieve it. ‘Dream Girl’ is a play written by American playwright Elmer Rice. The play   explores the themes of illusion, identity, and the subconscious mind. It centers on the life of Georgina Allerton, a young woman living in a small New England town.  The heroine, Georgina struggles with an internal conflict regarding their identity and self-perception. Georgina is praised and desired by many of the young man, who views her as their “dream girl”. She is involved with three men: her brother in-law, Jim, for whom she has deep, secret and silent love; a successful business man- Hand, an amorous man, and a tough minded man, Clark who impels her to encounter the stark actuality of life.

Georgina Allerton is a young bookstore cashier who is brilliant, honest, eloquent, strong and charming, but due to her mental troubles, her personality is split into two. She wakes up one morning to get ready for work and admits that she is in love with her brother-in-law, Jim. While taking showers, she imagines herself as a guest on a radio psychiatric show, describing her relationship with Jim. Meanwhile, her mother's call shatters her day dreaming and brings her into consciousness. Similarly, the entire story is interrupted by her fancies. She sees herself as the mother of twins fathered by her brother-in-law.  Later in the play, Georgina reverts to day dreaming her way out of this dilemma.  Clark Redfield, a stranger, interrupts her fantasy of financial prosperity by selling her several review versions of her books. He doesn't require them because he doesn't read the books he evaluates for the newspaper. The scathing remark of Clark makes her realize that it is inevitable to encounter reality; day dreaming is deception and an act of cowardice. Using psychoanalytic concepts developed by Sigmund Freud and other prominent analysts, Elmer Rice’s ‘Dream Girl’ aims to understand the deeper psychological motivations and unconscious desires of the characters within the broader socio-political context of early 20th century America. The analysis will focus on themes of identity, power dynamics, and societal expectations as they intersect with the characters' dreams and aspirations.

Psychoanalytical Concepts:

Psychoanalysis depends on the hypothesis that mental problems are the outcome of the dismissal of factors by consciousness.  After that they are fixed firmly in the unconscious mind in the form of repressed driving force. They cause clashes that can be settled through the revelation and investigation of suppressions and by reestablishing individuals' awareness using procedures like free affiliation, dream examination, and so forth. Freud's fantasy investigation mirrors a type of wish satisfaction. His clarification of the fantasy led to further disclosures about infantile sexuality, about shocking pious relationship between father and daughter, mother and son, etc.

By utilizing psychoanalytic theory, this research unveils the hidden meanings and complexities underlying the socio-cultural and political events in Rice's "Dream Girl." It examines various psychological aspects, such as the longing for escapism and the consequences of living in a world of illusions. It also delves into socio-cultural elements, highlighting the societal expectations placed upon women and the impact of societal norms on individual identity. The play's treatment of these subjects promotes thinking and encourages spectators to consider their own experiences and views about identity, gender, and the search of personal fulfillment. Georgina's intense need for validation and recognition from society is another key aspect of her psychology. Her dreams allow her to escape from her mundane life and offer her a temporary refuge in the arms of fame and success. This yearning for acknowledgement reflects a deeper psychological need for acceptance and a fear of being forgotten or overlooked. In this play, Georgina, who is “as worldly as Alice in Wonderland”, lives in Cloud-Cuckoo—Land, attempts to escape from the reality by means of her romantic daydreams about three men in her life.

Socio-Cultural Context of "Dream Girl":

 The play ‘Dream Girl’ reflects the socio-cultural pressures of 1940s, a time of socio-cultural and political upheaval in America. It tries to capture the societal expectations placed upon women, especially in the domain of show business. Georgina's fantasies give her the valuable chance to challenge these social standards, but they also highlight the limitations placed on women in the entertainment industry. The socio-cultural context of Elmer Rice's "Dream Girl" reflects the tensions and challenges of the time, including gender roles, societal assumptions, the impact of war, and the role of art in shaping society. 

In 1940s, gender roles were prevalent in American society. Men were considered to be bread winners and women were primarily fulfilling household roles.  "Dream Girl" challenges these gender norms by portraying a female protagonist, Georgina Allerton, who aspires to have a successful career as a playwright. The play explores the conflict between Georgina's dreams and societal expectations of women as submissive and passive. The American Dream, the belief in upward social mobility and the pursuit of happiness and success, held a significant place in American society during the 1940s. "Dream Girl" reflects this by depicting Georgina's relentless pursuit of her dream despite various obstacles and setbacks. The play questions the feasibility and attainability of the American Dream for marginalized individuals, particularly artists and women.

The backdrop of World War II greatly influenced the socio-cultural context of the time. The war not only impacted the lives of individuals but also led to shifts in gender dynamics and societal values. "Dream Girl" explores the paradoxical nature of romantic and patriotic fantasies with the harsh reality of war and its profound impact on individuals' lives."Dream Girl" was written during a period when naturalism and realism dominated American theater. Elmer Rice, one of the pioneers of American naturalism, often depicted social issues and the struggles of the common man in his work. "Dream Girl" reflects this style by highlighting the challenges faced by working-class artists and their attempts to break free from societal constraints.

The 1940s marked a time of evolution transition and progress in American Society. The play reflects evolving conversations around sexuality, personal autonomy, and the role of women in society. "Dream Girl" explores the expectations placed on women, the pressures of conforming to societal standards, and the marginalization of female artists.
In general, a psychological analysis of the socio-cultural and political events in "Dream Girl" reveals the complex interplay between identity, societal pressures, and the broader historical setting. This analysis provides a deeper understanding of the characters' inspiration and activities while revealing insight on the psychological outcomes of living in a society that places such emphasis on fame and recognition.

Overview of early 20th century America:

At the end of the nineteenth century, a new hero, Sigmund Freud appeared with his theory of psycho-analysis. His theory investigates, studies, and understands human mental disposition and deals with neuroses and problems of the mind. As a result, Freud Psychology had a great Impact on American playwrights. In their play they discussed frankly about suppressed desires, obsessions, neurotic conflicts and the complexes of Electra and Oedipus. By this time, the sexual topics which were considered as social taboo, obtained a proper place in the theatre and also in other arts. William Marion Reedy remarks, it was “striking sex o’clock in America” ¹.

The introduction of machines and automation of industries has multiplied human problem. In early 20^th century Artists all over the world started contemplating over human predicaments: boredom, frustration, loneliness, vacuity. Lack of Spirituality became major issue for discussion. It was the time of revolt in literature, a period of culture bankruptcy and upheaval. The period is known for tension between past and present, new manner, self-conscious fashions, the exploration of new taste, a search for personal identity. The introduction of the automobiles, the labour saving machines, and motion pictures etc. brought a big change in the life of the average American. People started running for money and materialism. Persistent talk of wealth could be listened everywhere: “Cities became bigger, buildings taller, roads longer, fortunes greater, automobiles faster, colleges larger, night-clubs gayer” ²

As the abundance thrived, corruption also enhanced. Chronic drug use, illicit relationship, social biases, and gang murders had become normal act of the day. The whole series of generation was contaminated with "eat, drink and be merry". Because of developing monetary autonomy, the maiden aunties, and unmarried girls were leaving the roof of family. Sex had thrown all values into the background.  Due to change in manners and moral; the life became shameful and shaky, and society became corrupt in trade and commerce. According to Louis Adamic, “men in their prime became victims of psychic and physiological disorders which led to sexual impotence” ³ .The words "success" and "American Dream", watchwords in the public eye, have turned into the implications of profane words. The 1930s were a time of social, political and intellectual   unrest. It was not only a decade of economic upheaval, but also of the rise of fascism and Nazism and the growing threat of their leaders, Mussolini and Hitler, respectively. In American society, Fascism, during the Depression period was welcomed “as a new gospel of salvation from economic and political   distress” ⁴

Socio-Cultural Norms and Expectations:

Socio-culturally, "Dream Girl" presents a commentary on the shifting societal norms and the expectations placed upon women in the early 20th century. Georgiana's character navigates a world where women are expected to conform to specific romantic ideals and fulfill the fantasies of men. The play challenges these gender roles and societal expectations, shedding light on the complexities faced by women in a society that often prioritizes the desires and expectations of men over their own agency.

Societal Impact on Individual Identity Formation:

It explores psychological concepts of identity and self perception. The play delves into the complexities of self identity and struggle to reconcile one’s true self with societal expectations. This psychological conflict reflects the broader issue of individuals attempting to find their place in a changing society. Additionally, the series utilizes psychological themes such as dreams, fantasies, and the subconscious to explore the protagonist's psychological landscape and motivations. These elements shed light on each character's hidden desires, fears and struggles and provide insight into the psychological consequences of the socio-cultural and political events that influence their lives.

Political Context of "Dream Girl":

Additionally, the socio-cultural and political events of the time also play a significant role in shaping the characters' psychological experiences. The play subtly critiques the political events of its time. With World War II serving as a backdrop, the characters in "Dream Girl" constantly find themselves grappling with the uncertainty and chaos that come with war. This political backdrop resonates with the characters' internal struggles and adds an extra layer of psychological tension. The war serves as a metaphor for the internal battles the characters face in their quest for self-identity and fulfillment. "Dream Girl" was written during the aftermath of World War II, when the country was dealing with post-war adjustments and Cold War tensions. These events create a sense of anxiety and unease, which is reflected in the characters' psychological states. The dreams and aspirations of the characters are influenced by the socio-political climate of the time, representing the longing for stability and security amidst uncertainty.

Psychoanalytical Analysis of Characters:

The play delves into the psychological consequences of living in a world driven by fantasy and illusion. As Georgiana's various identities begin to blur, the play raises questions about the impact of maintaining false personas on one's mental well-being. It challenges societal expectations by exploring the toll that fulfilling others' fantasies can have on an individual's sense of self and their ability to grasp reality. Additionally, the socio-cultural context of the unnamed city in which the play is set plays a role in shaping the characters' behavior and attitudes. The city serves as a microcosm of the larger society, reflecting the values, pressures, and aspirations of the time. The socio-cultural elements explored in "Dream Girl" add depth and realism to the narrative, making it relatable and engaging for audiences.

Georgina, a sincere, eloquent, forceful, and attractive woman, is split into two parts due to her psychological troubles. She has been in a secret love for Jim, hoping to get his love one day. However, Jim marries her elder sister, Miriam, breaking Georgina's heart. She feels guilty for her love for her brother-in-law, and her dreams are shattered. Georgina struggles to cope with her personal problems, leading to tension, isolation, and helplessness. To cope, she indulges in immoral activities like dancing, drinking, and smoking. Georgina has also started dating another amorous man named George Hand, who is pursuing her even though he is married. Her agitation is so acute that it makes it difficult for her to cope with her situation and environment.

 Georgina, a modest and upright young lady, is now prepared to degrade herself and voluntarily offer herself to him: "I am going to play with fire." ⁵  But she rapidly becomes afraid and recognizes herself as a prostitute standing on a street corner searching for work. When Georgina learns that Miriam is pregnant, she is overjoyed and even congratulates her.  Miriam claims that Jim is unaware of the situation and is likely unhappy about it. Georgina fantasizes about her sister having twins. She conjures up a scenario in which the child's parents portray hospital staff and Jim represents her spouse.

 Miriam tries to carry the children in her dream but is rejected by Jim, who argues there is "no real marriage" between them. She breaks her daydreaming to go to work. Georgina has a succession of daydreams involving family and friends throughout the play.

She agrees that birth is the most universal event and the most miraculous of all. In her perspective, husband and wife create their own universe while enjoying unfathomable pleasure. Miriam, on the other hand, is bewildered by her conception, referring to herself as "a seething mass of unpleasant symptoms" (p. 467).  She likes sexual affairs but not for the purpose of producing a child because the pleasant glow and pink cheeks would vanish swiftly.

Georgina was too stunned by her sister's and mother's unusual conduct and rage to think that in this world there is no significance of creativity and sensitive attributes of a man. It is quite ironical that even a wife is not ready to appreciate her husband. She does not provide proper response to his feelings; instead, she insults and calls him butt. Georgina positively thinks that a wife must support her husband in hardships like illness and in health issues, and in happiness and sadness until death parts her. A woman must have profound feelings for values of life. There is no real love, no real marriage between a man and a woman, no spiritual communion, until they attach sentimentally. She believes that one's married life can be destroyed when another man or woman intrudes in the life of opposite partner. Despite having numerous opportunities to entangle young men, she refuses to break up her marriage for her own sake. She says: "I'm not one of those girls that break up marriage" (p. 487).

Clark Redfield is Georgina’s ex-fiancé in the play, who is concerned for her well being and tries to bring her back to the reality. He embodies the voice of reason and represents Georgina’s potential for a grounded, stable relationship. From a psychological point of view, Clark’s attachment to Georgina might stem from a desire to rescue or fix her, reflecting an underlying need for power and control. His frustration with her delusions could also be an expression of his own insecurities and fears.

Clark Redfield, the mouthpiece of Rice, a realist and critic, criticizes Georgina for living in a world of fantasy rather than reality. He argues: “The point is that you are a day dreamer you live in a world of fantasy instead of the world of reality” (p. 514).  Georgina believes that “if a dream is a real to you, why isn’t it as real as something you do?” Clark Redfield gives a good retort: Dreaming is simple, but living is difficult. Because when you dream, you set your own rules, but when you try to achieve anything, the rules are set by your own constraints and the structure of the reality you live in. He thinks that in life, whether we win or lose, there is always something to show for it, even if it is a scar or a sad memory. This perspective challenges Georgina's belief that dreams are real.

Georgina, in love with an unknown Romeo, is warned by Clark not to conceal the reality.. Like a psychotherapist, Clark is honest when he says that her love for Jim is only a daydream and not real. Georgina gets herself at a total loss after listening to Clark and finds herself devoid of all qualities.  She first finds Clark annoying, but she eventually comes to the conclusion that he is "ninety-five percent of the time" the appropriate man. She continues, "I've never met anyone like him before. He is a tough guy—he really is. He scares the day-lights out of me" (p. 520). When Georgina phones her parents to tell them she and Clark are married at three thirty in the morning, the play comes to an end. Georgina chooses Clark to be her true life mate, and her final virginal night ends with the following speech:

“Georgina: Wait! There’s just one thing I’d like to know. Do I have to give up dreaming altogether? Couldn’t just sort of taper off?

Clark: Well, I’ll be reasonable about it, as you run your dreams instead of letting them run   you.

Georgina: I know! If you can dream and not make dreams your master!” (p. 524)

In "Dream Girl," we observe that Miriam, Mrs. Allerton, and Claire are able to deal with their conditions without any trouble; therefore there is no issue, no frustration, and no crisis for them. Claire, Georgina's companion and a similarly intelligent and funny young lady of her age, is homosexual and unconstrained by any constraints. Despite her husband's separation from her, she still maintains a routine and straightforward existence. As she admits to herself: "I'm thinking very clearly about the whole thing, and entirely from my own point of view" (p. 490), Georgina's situation is not as bad as she believes. Instead, it is simply her emotional state that increases her sensitivity. She doesn't want to serve as someone else's tool. She advises Claire that a guy should have confidence in himself and work to understand his own strength and potential. By upholding one's dignity, self-assurance, and pride, one may exalt and crystallize one's own individuality. Man may sometimes withstand physical pain but not psychological distress, whether it comes from another person or society.

The Struggle for Self-Identity

One of the key psychological themes of "Dream Girl" is the protagonist's struggle with identity. "Dream Girl" is a drama about identity, self-perception, celebrity, and the intricacies of human relationships. We may understand the motivations of the characters and the underlying societal criticism by doing a psychological study of the socio-cultural and political events depicted in the play. Georgina Allerton, a talented actress who represents many personalities in her dreams, is the main character of the play. The borders between truth and fantasy are constantly blurred by her several identities, which causes her to feel profoundly disconnected from her actual self. Georgina's desire to assume another identity brings attention to the negative psychological effects of performing several roles for an extended length of time.

The role of dreams in the expression of repressed desires

Protagonist, Georgina admits that dreaming is a "deceiving elf" so one must admits the reality. As a result, she attempts to cease mooning and pondering herself to be an unusual creature with a fascinating psychological existence, yet she still falls into fantasies, and her dissatisfaction is eased by the imaginary successes, objectives, and desires.  She imagines herself as an actor in the role of Portia, receiving a lot of praise, shouts, and "Bravo" screams. Her arms are packed with flowers. She bows, smiles, and embraces the unnoticed people. Georgina gets pleased when her sister informs her that she has conceived two kids in her womb, and she imagines herself in a hospital bed, completely encircled by flowers, with two newborns.

“Georgina: I’m a new woman, Jim.

Jim: And I'm a new man--with someone to understand me, someone to have faith in me.”
(p. 468)

Such dream functions as a safety valve for her and allows some level of compensating joy. When she is in a state of fantasy, she speaks rather freely, expresses a great deal of emotion, and comes out feeling quite relieved. Her imagination turns to be quite important.

Power Dynamics and Control

The psychological power struggles within relationships are evident in Georgina’s intersections with these imaginary personas. Her ability to control and manipulate these characters reflects her desire for dominance and control in her relationships. The play ‘Dream Girl’ by Elmer Rice provides a rich examination of power dynamics and control within relationships. Georgina exercises significant control over the imaginary personas she creates. Throughout the play, these are moments where power dynamics shift, particularly characters begin to assert their own desires and autonomy. This challenges Georgina’s sense of control the complexities of human relationships. Elmer Rice uses the concept of imaginary characters to delve into the psychological aspects of power dynamics. It becomes a vehicle for exploring the depths of human consciousness, particularly the ways in which individuals exert control over their own emotions and desires.

Conclusion:

"Dream Girl" is an extensive study of the human psyche, focusing on significant concepts from psychoanalytic doctrines. The play offers insights on the unconscious mind, the psychology of desire and fear, and the role of imagination in shaping our sense of reality through its complex characters and intricate narrative. Rice expertly creates a novel that tackles the elusive nature of identity and the repercussions of living in a fantasy-driven society with a dash of intrigue and psychological depth. Georgiana's numerous identities continue to blend as the play progresses, generating thought-provoking concerns about authenticity, love, and the pursuit of happiness. By examining the concepts of projection, dreams, sexuality, and repression, Rice illuminates the profound impact of the unconscious on our conscious experience. He believes, “goodness is the goal humanity must strive to attain”.⁶   He emphasizes the complicated fabric of human emotions, weaknesses, and the battle for self-acceptance in the face of cultural expectations via the character of Georgina Allerton. Through the character of Georgina Allerton, he highlights the intricate tapestry of human emotions, vulnerabilities, and the struggle for self-acceptance in the face of societal expectations. "Dream Girl" invites us to reflect on our own unconscious motivations and encourages us to confront the depths of our own desires and fears.

Reference:

1. Elmer Rice, The Living Theatre (London: William Heinemann Ltd., 1959), p 123. Hereafter cited as The Living Theatre.

2.  Nevis &Commager , A Short History of the United States ( New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1968), p. 466

3. Louis Adamic, My America: 1928-1938 (New York: Harper and Brothers, 1938), p.293.

4. E.B.Ashton, The Fascist (London:Putnam,1937),p.13
5. Elmer Rice, “Dream Girl”, Seven Plays, p 463. The subsequent references to this play will be indicated by the page number of this edition in the bracket.
6. Elmer Rice, Minority Report, p.22
7. Freud, Sigmund. The Interpretation of Dreams.Deuticke, 1900.
8. Jung, Carl G. Modern Man in Search of a Soul. Harcourt, Brace and Company, 193.
9. Rice, Elmer. Dream Girl. Samuel French, 1928.
10. Horney, Karen. The Neurotic Personality of Our Time. W. W. Norton & Company, 1937.
11. Fromm, Erich. Escape from Freedom. Rinehart, 1941.
12. Lacan, Jacques. The Function and Field of Speech and Language in Psychoanalysis. Éditions du Seuil, 1953.
13. Erikson, Erik H. Identity and the Life Cycle. International Universities Press, 1959.
14. Rice, Elmer, Counsellor-at-Law, Samuel French, 1931.
15. Mitchell, Juliet. Psychoanalysis and Feminism: A Radical Reassessment of Freudian Psychoanalysis, Basic Books, 1993.
16. Danto, Arthur C. Elmer Rice: A Playwright's Vision of America, Twayne Publishers, 2006.