Lillian Hellman’s 1939 play, The Little Foxes, is a gripping drama exploring themes of power, greed, and family dynamics in early 20th-century Alabama.
1.1 Overview of the Play
The Little Foxes, written by Lillian Hellman, is a dramatic play set in a small Alabama town in 1900. It centers on the Hubbard family, focusing on Regina Giddens’ relentless pursuit of wealth and power. The story explores themes of greed, manipulation, and family dysfunction, highlighting the moral decay within the Hubbard dynasty. The play is known for its intense character dynamics and gripping narrative structure.
1.2 Historical Context and Significance
The Little Foxes is set in 1900 Alabama, reflecting the societal norms and economic transitions of the time. The play critiques gender roles and power dynamics, with Regina’s struggle for financial independence highlighting women’s limited options. Hellman drew inspiration from her family history, creating a vivid portrayal of Southern aristocracy in decline. Its exploration of greed and morality remains timeless, resonating with modern audiences.
The Title and Its Biblical Origin
The title, The Little Foxes, originates from the Song of Solomon (2:15), symbolizing the destructive nature of small, seemingly insignificant evils that can ruin greater endeavors, reflecting the play’s themes of greed and corruption.
2.1 The Reference to the Song of Solomon
The title draws from Song of Solomon 2:15, “Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines,” symbolizing the destructive impact of small, insidious forces. This biblical reference underscores the play’s exploration of greed and corruption, where seemingly minor actions by characters like Regina and her brothers lead to significant moral and familial decay, mirroring the biblical metaphor of subtle yet profound destruction.
2.2 Symbolism of the “Little Foxes”
The “little foxes” symbolize the subtle yet devastating effects of greed, manipulation, and moral decay. Like the foxes in the biblical reference, the Hubbard family’s actions—driven by ambition and deceit—gradually destroy their relationships and integrity. Regina and her brothers embody these “little foxes,” ruining the familial “vines” through their relentless pursuit of power and wealth, highlighting the destructive nature of unchecked selfishness. This imagery underscores the play’s central theme of corruption.
The Plot and Characters
The play centers on the Hubbard family’s power struggle, focusing on Regina’s ruthless pursuit of wealth and control, her manipulative tactics, and the family’s moral decay. Key characters include Regina, her husband Horace, and daughter Alexandra, each entangled in a web of greed and betrayal. The plot explores their conflicting ambitions and the devastating consequences of their actions.
3.1 The Hubbard Family Dynasty
The Hubbard family, central to the play, represents a decaying Southern aristocracy. Their dynasty, built on wealth and power, is marked by internal strife and greed. Regina, the cunning matriarch, manipulates her brothers Benjamin and Oscar to secure control of the family business. Their rivalry and avarice drive the plot, exposing the moral rot beneath their privileged facade. The family’s dysfunction ultimately leads to their downfall.
3.2 Key Characters: Regina, Horace, and Alexandra
Regina Giddens is the manipulative and cunning matriarch, driven by greed and ambition. Horace, her ailing husband, opposes her schemes, symbolizing moral integrity. Alexandra, their daughter, embodies idealism, ultimately rejecting her mother’s corruption. Their complex dynamics fuel the play’s tension, highlighting themes of power and familial dysfunction. Regina’s ruthlessness contrasts with Horace’s weakness and Alexandra’s disillusionment, shaping the tragic narrative.
Themes and Motifs
Greed, power struggles, and family dysfunction dominate the play, reflecting societal corruption. Gender roles and moral decay are central motifs, highlighting the characters’ ruthless pursuit of wealth and control.
4.1 The Struggle for Power and Wealth
At the core of The Little Foxes lies a relentless battle for dominance and financial control within the Hubbard family. Regina Giddens manipulates her brothers and husband to secure her share of the cotton mill profits, while her daughter Alexandra grapples with the moral decay surrounding her. The play vividly portrays how greed and ambition destroy familial bonds and ethics, leaving only shattered relationships and hollow victories.
4.2 Gender Roles and Societal Constraints
The Little Foxes critiques the rigid gender roles of the early 20th century, particularly the limited opportunities for women. Regina Giddens, a cunning and determined matriarch, navigates a patriarchal society where women’s financial independence is stifled. Her manipulation of her brothers and husband underscores the societal constraints that force women to rely on men for power and wealth, while her daughter Alexandra’s character hints at the possibility of breaking free from these norms.
Adaptations and Performances
The Little Foxes was adapted into a 1941 film starring Bette Davis and Teresa Wright. The original Broadway production, starring Tallulah Bankhead, ran for 410 performances and toured extensively.
5.1 The 1941 Film Adaptation
The 1941 film adaptation of The Little Foxes, directed by William Wyler, starred Bette Davis as Regina Giddens and Teresa Wright as Alexandra. The movie closely followed the play’s plot, emphasizing themes of greed and family dysfunction. It was a critical and commercial success, with Davis receiving an Academy Award nomination for her powerful portrayal of Regina. The film remains a classic adaptation of Hellman’s work.
5.2 Notable Broadway Productions
The original Broadway production of The Little Foxes opened on February 15, 1939, at the National Theatre, starring Tallulah Bankhead as Regina. It ran for 410 performances and launched a successful national tour. In 2017, a Broadway revival featured Marg Helgenberger as Regina, while recent productions, such as the Arena Stage version, continue to captivate audiences, showcasing the play’s enduring relevance and dramatic power.
Lillian Hellman’s Inspiration
Lillian Hellman drew inspiration from her family dynamics and Alabama roots. The title, suggested by Dorothy Parker, reflects biblical themes, shaping the play’s moral undertones.
6.1 Autobiographical Elements
Lillian Hellman’s play drew heavily from her family history. The Hubbard family was inspired by her mother’s relatives, particularly the Marx family, who were influential bankers. Hellman’s mother, Julia Newhouse, and her interactions with the Marx family shaped the dynamics of greed and power struggles depicted in the play. These personal observations added depth to the characters and their conflicts, making the story deeply reflective of her own experiences.
6.2 The Prequel: “Another Part of the Forest”
Lillian Hellman wrote Another Part of the Forest in 1946 as a prequel to The Little Foxes. It explores the Hubbard family’s history, revealing the origins of their greed and ambition. Set decades earlier, the play delves into the family’s rise to power and the seeds of their destructive dynamics. This prequel provides deeper insight into the motivations behind the events of The Little Foxes, enriching the understanding of the characters’ complexities and flaws.
Critical Reception and Legacy
The Little Foxes received widespread acclaim for its sharp dialogue and complex characters. Tallulah Bankhead’s performance earned her recognition as one of Broadway’s leading actresses, solidifying the play’s status as a 20th-century classic.
7.1 Reviews and Accolades
The Little Foxes garnered critical acclaim upon its release, with Tallulah Bankhead’s performance as Regina earning widespread praise. The play was hailed as a classic of 20th-century drama, celebrated for its sharp dialogue and nuanced portrayal of family dynamics. Variety magazine recognized Bankhead as the best actress of the 1938-39 Broadway season, further cementing the play’s reputation as a landmark production.
7.2 Cultural Impact and Modern Relevance
The Little Foxes remains a powerful commentary on greed, power, and societal constraints. Its exploration of gender roles and family dysfunction continues to resonate with modern audiences. The play’s themes of moral corruption and personal ambition are timeless, making it a staple in both academic and theatrical circles, ensuring its relevance in contemporary discussions of ethics and social dynamics.
Availability of the Play in PDF Format
The Little Foxes is widely available in PDF format through sources like Dramatists Play Service, Inc., and various online platforms, making it accessible for readers and scholars globally;
8.1 Sources for Downloading the PDF
The PDF version of The Little Foxes is available from reputable sources like Dramatists Play Service, Inc., and online platforms such as the Internet Archive or Google Books. Users can also access it through educational websites or digital libraries by searching the title. Always ensure downloads are from legal and authorized sources to support copyright compliance and quality assurance.
8.2 Legal and Ethical Considerations
Downloading or sharing copyrighted material like The Little Foxes PDF without authorization is illegal and violates copyright laws. Always purchase or access the play from authorized sources to support creators and comply with ethical standards. Using pirated versions undermines authors’ rights and the literary industry. Ensure all downloads are legal and respect intellectual property rights.
Educational Resources and Study Guides
Study guides and analysis for The Little Foxes offer detailed insights into themes, characters, and historical context. Resources from educational platforms provide discussion questions and critical perspectives.
9.1 Analysis of Major Themes
The Little Foxes explores themes of greed, power struggles, and moral decay. The play delves into the Hubbard family’s ruthless pursuit of wealth, highlighting Regina’s manipulation and Horace’s ethical resistance. It also examines gender roles, as women navigate a patriarchal society. The destruction of relationships and the corrupting influence of ambition are central, offering a stark critique of societal values and human nature.
9.2 Discussion Questions for Students
How does Regina’s pursuit of power reflect the societal constraints on women?
What role does greed play in the Hubbard family’s dynamics?
How does Horace’s character serve as a moral counterpoint to Regina’s actions?
What message does the play convey about the consequences of ethical compromise?
How does Alexandra’s character evolve, and what does she symbolize?
Discuss the significance of the title and its biblical origins in relation to the plot.
Analyze the theme of family loyalty versus personal ambition.
How does the play portray gender roles in early 20th-century Alabama?
What impact does Horace’s death have on the characters and the story’s resolution?
How does the play critique the corrupting influence of wealth and power?
The Little Foxes remains a timeless masterpiece, offering insights into greed, family dysfunction, and societal structures. Its enduring relevance continues to captivate audiences, exploring universal human struggles.
10.1 The Enduring Appeal of “The Little Foxes”
The Little Foxes captivates audiences with its timeless themes of greed, power, and family dysfunction. The play’s exploration of universal human struggles, coupled with its sharp dialogue and complex characters, ensures its relevance across generations. Regina Giddens’ ruthless ambition and the crumbling family dynamics resonate deeply, making it a enduring classic in American theater and a powerful commentary on societal values.
10.2 Final Thoughts on the Play’s Relevance
The Little Foxes remains a poignant reflection of societal greed and familial decay. Its exploration of gender roles, economic manipulation, and moral decay continues to resonate in modern times. The play’s ability to provoke thought on timeless issues ensures its lasting impact, making it a vital study of human nature and power dynamics, both historically and today.