Wit 1998 - Articles Page 800.2

Wit, a one-act play written by Margaret Edson, is a powerful and poignant exploration of mortality and the human spirit in the face of terminal illness. Debuting in 1995, Wit quickly garnered critical acclaim for its insightful writing and raw emotional impact. In 1999, it was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, solidifying its place as a significant work of contemporary theatre.



The play centers around Vivian Bearing, a brilliant but emotionally reserved professor of Donne poetry, diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. As Vivian undergoes aggressive treatment, the audience witnesses her grapple with mortality, her strained relationship with her students and colleagues, and the search for meaning in her final days.



While cancer is a central element in the play, Wit transcends the confines of a medical drama. It delves into themes of human connection, the power of language, and the enduring search for intellectual and emotional fulfillment.