Finding humor in controversy

In The Mammary Plays, Paula Vogel uses many literary devices to scrutinize the socially accepted taboos that dominated the 1950’s, including pedophilia, homosexual relationships, and the role of women in society. At times I felt queasy reading this sensitive material because of the extraordinary use of imagery that revealed the problems in society that are graced over. In the first play, How I learned to drive, the topic of pedophilia is explored when Li’l Bit, a young teenage driver is taking lessons from her Uncle Peck on how to drive. Although learning to drive is an important skill to learn, Li’l Bit determines life lessons on based on her peculiar relationship with Uncle Peck about “what not to do.” Vogel uses modifiers and cataloging in the first play to add moments of satisfaction and understanding of a deeper meaning. With deep understanding, comes deep responsibility with the language. Her sexual humor tends to cross the line, going back and forth between comfort zones to awkwardness. Yet, it is this shift that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat undoubtedly waiting for the next climactic moment to appear. Also included in The Mammary Plays, The Mineola Twins is about the different roles women could have during the 1950’s and how they can challenge the standard stereotypical issues. Paula Vogel uses the twin sisters Myrna and Myra as a juxtaposition of women. As a young teenager, Myrna is a pure woman who aspires to be the perfect housewife and perfect spouse to her husband. While on the other side of the line, her sister Myra is ready to make a name for her, stepping outside of the typical role of women and become something unique that satisfies her rebellious self. These plays were not only a great entertaining read, but they examined the society during the 1950’s with careful scrutiny regarding the topics of pedophilia and women’s lifestyles.