The Caucasian Chalk Circle - Act 1 Notes

Characters in Scene 1

• Chorus, Singer: Guide the audience through the narrative.
• Arsen Kazbeki (Fat Prince): Ruthless leader of the rebellion.
• Georgi Abashwili (Governor): Disregards his duties and is overthrown.
• Natella Abashwili (Governor's Wife): Self-absorbed and neglects her child.
• Simon Shashava: Palace guard in love with Grusha, loyal but loving.
• Grusha Vashnadze: Takes responsibility for the abandoned child.

Plot Points

• The scene introduces numerous characters, differing from traditional dramatic theatre with its focused character set and plot.
• The Fat Prince orchestrates the overthrow of the Governor.
• The Governor's Wife abandons her baby, Michael, amidst the chaos.
• Simon professes his love for Grusha and asks her to marry him.
• Grusha, driven by humane instinct, decides to take care of the child, Michael.

Key Themes and Concepts

• Epic Theatre: Each scene stands independently.
• The Singer: Controls the action on stage.
• The play merges the traditions of the Easter Festival with the Governor's demise: 'now you don't need an architect, a carpenter will do.'
• Brecht aimed to portray Grusha as an uncharismatic character whose love develops from her choices and circumstances rather than instinct.