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How Does Wilder Present Simon In Our Town

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Simon Stimson is a complicated character in literature known for his strict and demanding personality. Simon is a central figure in the play "Our Town" by Thornton Wilder, and is remembered for his tragic story and struggle with alcoholism and inner demons. Throughout the play, Simon's strict and demanding nature is established through his interactions with the choir members. Simon states, “Softer! Softer!--- You leave the loudness to the Methodist. You couldn’t beat ‘em even if you wanted to. Now again!” Simon clearly wanted perfection for the upcoming performance and his demands showed his expectations. However, as the play progresses, it becomes clear that Simon is also struggling with many personal issues, particularly alcoholism. Mrs. …show more content…

For example, when Mrs. Gibbs talks with Dr. Gibbs, Dr. Gibbs states, “Hmm! Simon Stimson far gone, was he?---I guess I know more about Stimson’s affairs than anybody in this town. Some people ain’t made for small-town life.” Unfortunately, his struggles do not stop there. Simon is a deeply troubled and lonely character. One can interpret his actions and character in the play to be a representation of the existential crisis that many individuals go through in their lives. Simon’s addiction and boldness to constantly drag around town shows how Simon gave up on the meaning life holds and the reason for his …show more content…

Simon’s death also illustrates the consequences of ignoring one's inner demons and that allowing addiction to take over will lead to a tragic ending. Throughout the play, Simon is depicted as an alcoholic who is struggling with personal demons and is unable to overcome his addiction. This ultimately leads to his untimely death; which was revealed by Joe Stoddard in Act III that Simon died by suicide. Simon's death serves as a warning about the dangers of ignoring one's inner struggles and allowing addiction to take over. The stage manager's reference to Simon's death as "one of the mysterious parts of it" highlights the idea that Simon's death was not fully understood and that his addiction may have been a significant factor. By showing the tragedy of Simon's death, Wilder underscores the importance of facing one's inner demons and seeking help when struggling with

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