Analyzing Michael in 'God of Carnage': Performance, Influence, and Design

What is the genre of Yasmina Reza's God of Carnage?

A dark comedy.

In what year was God of Carnage written?

2006

What central theme does God of Carnage explore?

The fragility of middle-class civility when confronted with conflict.

What style is God of Carnage performed in?

Contemporary realist style with moments of heightened physical comedy.

How does God of Carnage reflect 21st-century Western middle-class values?

It shows how outward politeness masks self-interest and suppressed aggression.

What historical theatrical traditions does God of Carnage draw from?

European absurdism and postmodern theatre.

What character does the narrator portray in God of Carnage?

Michael.

What cultural expectations does Michael embody?

Masculine stoicism and practical detachment.

How does Michael initially respond to conflict in the play?

He downplays conflict, attempting to maintain social order.

What physical theatre technique did Jacques Lecoq develop?

Neutral mask work.

What is the purpose of using a neutral mask in physical theatre?

To strip away habitual gestures and discover truthful movement.

What physical traits did the narrator identify for Michael using neutral mask work?

Shoulders carried forward, small functional gestures, and increased physical expansion in moments of anger.

What does Anne Bogart's Viewpoints framework emphasize?

Dynamic ensemble interaction.

How did Michael's spatial relationship change during the play?

He initially kept distance but closed space aggressively during arguments.

What does the term 'tempo and duration' refer to in the context of Michael's character?

His slow, measured tempo shifted to abrupt movements when defensive.

What elements of design were used to create dramatic interest in the performance?

Focus, space, tension, and contrast.

How did the set design reflect the theme of social breakdown?

Through symmetrical arrangement and contrasting blocking.

What does the warm beige upstage wall symbolize in the set design?

Middle-class domesticity and stability.

What role does lighting play in the performance?

It creates a welcoming but claustrophobic environment, focusing attention on the conflict.

What is the significance of Michael's costume in the play?

It symbolizes a middle-class, professional lifestyle.

How does Michael's focus change throughout the play?

He initially avoids direct confrontation, then shifts focus sharply toward others when defensive.

What does the drinks cabinet represent for Michael?

An 'escape zone' reflecting his avoidance behaviors.

What does the quote 'They're trying to give the tooth a chance' reveal about Michael?

His pragmatic but tone-deaf nature.

How does the performance illustrate the collapse of social pretence?

By showing how politeness unravels under pressure.

What is the overall conclusion drawn from the portrayal of Michael?

He transitions from an understated host to an emotionally defensive father.