Death and the Maiden (play)

"Death and the Maiden" is a psychological thriller play by Ariel Dorfman that explores themes of trauma, justice, and reconciliation. It centers on a woman named Paulina, who, after surviving a brutal dictatorship, encounters a man she believes may have been her torturer. The story unfolds as she confronts her past, questioning his identity and seeking truth and justice. The play delves into moral ambiguity, the pain of unresolved pasts, and the struggle to find closure, making it a compelling examination of how personal and collective histories influence present lives.