The Lower Depths

"The Lower Depths" is a play by Russian playwright Maxim Gorky, first performed in 1902. It explores the lives of a group of marginalized individuals living in a cramped, rundown boarding house. The characters, including a thief, a prostitute, and an idealistic dreamer, grapple with despair, existential questions, and the harsh realities of life. Through their interactions, Gorky highlights themes of social inequality, human suffering, and the search for meaning. The play is considered a significant work in the realm of Russian literature and an important commentary on society's underclass during the early 20th century.