Buried Child Summary of Sam Shepard's Book

Exploring the Depths of Dysfunction in "Buried Child" by Sam Shepard

An Introduction to the Dark World of "Buried Child"

In the world of American theatre, few works are as haunting and thought-provoking as Sam Shepard's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, "Buried Child." First published on January 1, 1979, this dark and enigmatic play delves deep into the depths of dysfunction within a fractured family, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the ghosts of the past that continue to haunt the present.

Set in a dilapidated farmhouse in rural Illinois, "Buried Child" opens with the arrival of Vince and his girlfriend to the home of Vince's estranged grandparents. What follows is a surreal and disturbing journey into the heart of a family torn apart by secrets and buried truths, where the line between reality and illusion becomes increasingly blurred. As the play unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of characters who are both grotesque and tragically human, each grappling with their own demons and struggles.

The Characters of "Buried Child"

Vince: The protagonist of the play, Vince is a young man who returns to his grandparents' home with his girlfriend, Shelly. As the play progresses, we see Vince grapple with his own identity and the dark legacy of his family.

Tilden: Vince's father, Tilden is a former All-American footballer who now seems lost and broken, haunted by the memory of a buried child. His presence in the household adds to the sense of unease and dysfunction that permeates the play.

Dodge: Vince's grandfather, Dodge is a cantankerous and bitter old man who spends his days drinking and reminiscing about the past. His relationship with Tilden is strained, and his interactions with the other characters reveal the deep-seated resentments that simmer beneath the surface.

Halie: Vince's grandmother, Halie is a religious and controlling woman who is quick to judge and criticize those around her. Her relationship with Dodge is fraught with tension, and her devotion to her deceased son, Ansel, adds another layer of complexity to the family dynamics.

A Detailed Summary of "Buried Child"

As Vince and Shelly arrive at the farmhouse, they are met with a scene of madness and confusion. Dodge and Halie seem to have no recollection of Vince, leading to a series of tense and awkward interactions. Tilden, whose mental state seems fragile, is preoccupied with the memory of a buried child, while Bradley, Tilden's one-legged brother, lurks in the shadows, his presence a constant source of unease.

As the play unfolds, we learn more about the dark secrets that have torn this family apart. The buried child becomes a symbol of the family's buried past, a painful reminder of the tragedies that have shaped their lives. Vince struggles to make sense of the chaos around him, while Shelly becomes increasingly unsettled by the strange and unsettling atmosphere of the farmhouse.

Analysis of "Buried Child"

At its core, "Buried Child" is a searing exploration of the American family and the legacy of violence, trauma, and dysfunction that can be passed down from generation to generation. Shepard's writing is raw and unflinching, delving deep into the psychological depths of his characters and exposing the wounds that fester beneath the surface.

The play's surreal and dreamlike atmosphere adds to the sense of unease and disorientation, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. As the characters grapple with their own demons and struggles, the audience is forced to confront uncomfortable truths about the nature of memory, identity, and the ghosts of the past that continue to haunt the present.

To conclude, "Buried Child" is a powerful and unforgettable work of theatre that challenges audiences to confront the darkest aspects of the human experience. With its richly drawn characters, haunting imagery, and poignant themes, this play continues to resonate with audiences more than forty years after its initial publication.

If you found this brief summary intriguing, I highly recommend purchasing the complete book or listening to the audiobook to experience the full impact of Sam Shepard's masterful storytelling. Dive into the world of "Buried Child" and discover a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of family, memory, and the enduring power of the past.

9780307274977 (ISBN10: 0307274977)