The play contained and important educational message. Education is vital for development of critical thinking. Vivian described herself as "A demanding professor. Uncompromising." This may seem problematic for students but it was also a good way to challenge their minds. Jason, one of the doctors treating Vivian and former student, studied English poet John Donne. Donne wrote sonnets about life's complexities such as life, death, and God.
Jason took Vivian's class because he wanted to be well-rounded in all subjects. He claimed that it would make his transcripts look impressive. Unfortunately, the other students did not appreciate Vivian's stringent teaching methods, but it was necessary in order for her to accomplish her goals. One of the poets she taught about was John Donne.
According to Vivian, Donne's "Metaphysical quandaries are addressed, but never resolved." As a professor, she knew it was important to encourage students to read carefully, think, and create their own theories based on the readings. This is why the play is called Wit.
The other characters involved in the play did not seem to have a major affect. Doctor Kelekian was driven by his medicinal research and appeared to be emotionally disconnected from Vivian. Their conversation was limited to shared experiences with hard of hearing students.
Susie, Vivian's head nurse, seemed to take more interest in her mental and emotional well-being. Surprisingly, Jason did not converse with Vivian very much due to his educational upbringing. Vivian felt that he may have picked up his poise from her since she never allowed her personal side to interfere with her professional side.
On the other hand, Jason seemed to be very remorseful when he erroneously called a code blue. Code blue means that the patient is dead or dying and needs to be resuscitated through emergency personnel. Susie attempted to stop him but he kept trying to resuscitate Vivian when he did not hear her heart beating.
Once it was established that Doctor Kelekian ordered a "DNR", Jason's emotions overwhelmed him as he lost his aforementioned poise. Vivian was finally released from her suffering as her cancer had taken her life. On the other hand, Vivian finally entered the other realm and discovered the answers to Donne's questions regarding death and salvation.
1 comment:
I would suggest that Jason took Vivian's class to prove that the scientist is superior to the literary scholar. He also planned to get an A, but only got an A-. Do you think he succeeded in becoming well rounded, or does the play suggest that he has given up compassion for scientific knowledge. Susie is an important character as she has found a balance and can comfort Vivian as well as treat her.
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