The Caucasian Chalk Circle By Bertolt Brecht

The Caucasian Chalk Circle is a play by German playwright Bertolt Brecht that tells the story of a servant woman, Grusha, who saves an abandoned child during a time of war and political unrest. As the child grows, a legal dispute arises over who should raise him. The play presents a dramatic and philosophical discussion on justice, the nature of responsibility, and the conflict between personal and societal obligations. Brecht uses the play to critique the systems of power and the notion of justice.

Why  Read This Book

• Brecht’s play features his trademark use of "epic theatre," which aims to provoke critical thinking and distance the audience from emotional involvement.
• The central theme of justice, as both a moral and societal construct, makes it a thought-provoking read.
• Set against the backdrop of war and revolution, it engages with larger questions of political power and ethics.
• This play is not just a gripping narrative but a key work in modern theatre, illustrating Brecht’s influence on the art form.

About the Author

Bertolt Brecht (1898–1956) was a German playwright, poet, and theatre director, whose works and theories revolutionized modern theatre. He is known for his use of the "alienation effect," which aimed to distance the audience from emotional immersion and encourage critical reflection. His works, including Mother Courage and Her Childrenand The Good Woman of Setzuan, remain influential in theatre today.