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The Shape of Things Summary: Characters, Chapter 1, and Analysis

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The Shape of Things Summary: Characters, Chapter 1, and Analysis

The Shape of Things is a thought-provoking play that explores themes of art, manipulation, and personal transformation. The story revolves around Adam, a shy and insecure college student, and Evelyn, an ambitious art student who dramatically alters Adam's life.

Key points:

  • Adam undergoes significant physical and behavioral changes under Evelyn's influence
  • Evelyn's true motives are gradually revealed, blurring the lines between art and manipulation
  • The play examines the nature of relationships, self-identity, and the ethics of art

26.6.2021

8298

A Restaurant Lobby

This scene marks a significant turning point in Adam's transformation and highlights Evelyn's manipulative influence.

Adam's Changes

Adam begins to make noticeable changes to his appearance and lifestyle:

  • Starts going to the gym
  • Adopts a healthier diet
  • Gets a new haircut

Quote: E: "Plus, the hair" (p.15 1.9) Quote: E: "You're running, you're eating better, are you still lifting?" (p.16 II.16-17)

Pressure to Change

Adam feels obligated to make these changes to please Evelyn:

  • He engages in activities he's not used to
  • Feels pressured to continue even when he misses a day

Quote: A: "I mean, I didn't today, but..." E: "That's okay." A: "No, I'm gonna ..." (p.16 ll.16-20)

Motivation for Change

Adam admits that he's changing primarily for Evelyn, not for himself:

Quote: E: "Do you like doing it?" A: "Honestly... No. I totally hate it!" (p.16 11.22-23) E: "So why would you ... ?" A: "Because you suggested it. Which is kinda pathetic, but true..." (p.16 ll.25-27)

Evelyn's Manipulation

Evelyn employs various tactics to influence Adam's behavior:

  1. Positive Reinforcement:
    • Praises Adam's changes
    • Boosts his self-esteem and confidence

Quote: E: "And you amaze me, you do. Look at you!" (p.16 1.14)

  1. Encouragement of Further Change:
    • Makes Adam feel proud of his achievements
    • Implies that more changes are desirable

Quote: E: "I gave you a couple ideas and you're changing your entire life. I'm very proud of you." (p.17 Il.1-4)

  1. Building Trust:
    • Expresses affection for Adam
    • Encourages him to trust her judgment

Quote: E: "I do like you." (p.18 11.22) Quote: E: "So, don't you trust me, then, to know how I feel?" (p.18 1.29)

Highlight: Evelyn's manipulation techniques are subtle yet effective, gradually reshaping Adam's self-image and behavior.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Evelyn's Character Profile

This section provides a detailed look at Evelyn, the catalyst for Adam's transformation and a complex character in The Shape of Things.

Background

Evelyn's background is revealed gradually throughout the play:

  • Art student pursuing an M.F.A. in applied theory and criticism (p.12)
  • Working on a thesis project described as "a big installation thingie"
  • Identifies as an artist and sculptress (p.18)
  • Originally from Illinois, near Chicago (p.17)
  • Jewish heritage on her mother's side; mother's maiden name is Tessman (p.39)
  • Family name: Thompson (p.39)
  • 25 years old (p.17)
  • Zodiac sign: Gemini, born in June (p.17)

Highlight: Evelyn's artistic background plays a crucial role in her actions and motivations throughout the play.

Personal History

Evelyn shares some personal details that provide insight into her character:

  • Had rhinoplasty at age 16 (p.39)
  • Engaged in self-harm as a teenager to gain attention (p.42)

Vocabulary: Rhinoplasty - A surgical procedure to change the shape or size of the nose, commonly known as a "nose job."

Character Traits

Confidence and Assertiveness

  • Demonstrates boldness by attempting to deface a statue and refusing to back down (p. 8)
  • Expresses her opinions directly and forcefully

Example: During a debate about art with Phillip, Evelyn stands her ground, causing others to react with surprise: "Everyone except Evelyn sort of freezes on that one" (p.24)

Direct Communication Style

  • Openly comments on Adam's appearance: "You're cute. I don't like your hair..." (p.13)
  • Offers unsolicited advice: "You shouldn't style it so much" (p.13)

Passion for Art

  • Displays extensive knowledge about the statue in the museum (p.11)
  • Shows a strong dislike for art she considers inauthentic

Highlight: Evelyn's artistic passion and strong opinions foreshadow her controversial approach to her thesis project involving Adam.

Manipulation Techniques

Evelyn employs various strategies to influence Adam:

  1. Subtle Suggestions: Guides Adam's changes through seemingly casual comments
  2. Positive Reinforcement: Praises Adam's transformations, encouraging further changes
  3. Trust Building: Expresses affection and encourages Adam to trust her judgment
  4. Challenging Conventions: Pushes Adam outside his comfort zone, framing it as personal growth

Analysis: Evelyn's manipulation of Adam raises ethical questions about the boundaries between art, personal relationships, and consent in The Shape of Things play.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

Characters in The Shape of Things

This section introduces the main characters of the play, focusing on Adam and Evelyn.

Adam

Adam is initially portrayed as a shy, insecure young man working two jobs while preparing for further education. His character undergoes significant transformation throughout the play.

Background

  • Works as a security guard in a museum and at a video store
  • Plans to start his education after working for a year
  • Previously had feelings for Jenny but was too shy to act on them

Initial Characteristics

  • Described as nerdy and shy
  • Lacks self-confidence
  • Finds the courage to ask for Evelyn's number when they first meet

Transformation

Adam's life changes dramatically after meeting Evelyn:

  • Loses about 20 pounds
  • Grows out his hair
  • Improves his wardrobe
  • Stops biting his nails
  • Gains self-confidence

Highlight: Adam's physical transformation is rapid, but his internal changes are slower and more complex.

Behavior and Relationships

  • Becomes infatuated with Evelyn, thinking about her constantly
  • Still harbors some feelings for Jenny, as evidenced by kissing her
  • Sacrifices his principles for Evelyn, indicating low self-esteem
  • Allows Evelyn to control his life, becoming more of a central character in his own story

Character Development

  • External changes are swift and dramatic, primarily influenced by Evelyn
  • Internal changes are slower, with Adam still avoiding confrontations initially
  • By the end of the play, Adam shows significant personal growth, confronting Evelyn about her actions

Quote: "After Evelyn let the bomb explode he goes to her to start the conversation/the fight, he says what he thinks and shows that he is not okay with that he kind of finds and shows his red line" (p. 74-81)

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in

Öffnen

Nichts passendes dabei? Erkunde andere Fachbereiche.

Knowunity ist die #1 unter den Bildungs-Apps in fünf europäischen Ländern

Knowunity wurde bei Apple als "Featured Story" ausgezeichnet und hat die App-Store-Charts in der Kategorie Bildung in Deutschland, Italien, Polen, der Schweiz und dem Vereinigten Königreich regelmäßig angeführt. Werde noch heute Mitglied bei Knowunity und hilf Millionen von Schüler:innen auf der ganzen Welt.

Ranked #1 Education App

Laden im

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Laden im

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Knowunity ist die #1 unter den Bildungs-Apps in fünf europäischen Ländern

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Durchschnittliche App-Bewertung

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Schüler:innen lieben Knowunity

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iOS User

Ich liebe diese App so sehr, ich benutze sie auch täglich. Ich empfehle Knowunity jedem!! Ich bin damit von einer 4 auf eine 1 gekommen :D

Philipp, iOS User

Die App ist sehr einfach und gut gestaltet. Bis jetzt habe ich immer alles gefunden, was ich gesucht habe :D

Lena, iOS Userin

Ich liebe diese App ❤️, ich benutze sie eigentlich immer, wenn ich lerne.

Nichts passendes dabei? Erkunde andere Fachbereiche.

Knowunity ist die #1 unter den Bildungs-Apps in fünf europäischen Ländern

Knowunity wurde bei Apple als "Featured Story" ausgezeichnet und hat die App-Store-Charts in der Kategorie Bildung in Deutschland, Italien, Polen, der Schweiz und dem Vereinigten Königreich regelmäßig angeführt. Werde noch heute Mitglied bei Knowunity und hilf Millionen von Schüler:innen auf der ganzen Welt.

Ranked #1 Education App

Laden im

Google Play

Laden im

App Store

Knowunity ist die #1 unter den Bildungs-Apps in fünf europäischen Ländern

4.9+

Durchschnittliche App-Bewertung

13 M

Schüler:innen lieben Knowunity

#1

In Bildungs-App-Charts in 11 Ländern

950 K+

Schüler:innen haben Lernzettel hochgeladen

Immer noch nicht überzeugt? Schau dir an, was andere Schüler:innen sagen...

iOS User

Ich liebe diese App so sehr, ich benutze sie auch täglich. Ich empfehle Knowunity jedem!! Ich bin damit von einer 4 auf eine 1 gekommen :D

Philipp, iOS User

Die App ist sehr einfach und gut gestaltet. Bis jetzt habe ich immer alles gefunden, was ich gesucht habe :D

Lena, iOS Userin

Ich liebe diese App ❤️, ich benutze sie eigentlich immer, wenn ich lerne.

Öffnen

The Shape of Things Summary: Characters, Chapter 1, and Analysis

The Shape of Things Summary: Characters, Chapter 1, and Analysis

The Shape of Things is a thought-provoking play that explores themes of art, manipulation, and personal transformation. The story revolves around Adam, a shy and insecure college student, and Evelyn, an ambitious art student who dramatically alters Adam's life.

Key points:

  • Adam undergoes significant physical and behavioral changes under Evelyn's influence
  • Evelyn's true motives are gradually revealed, blurring the lines between art and manipulation
  • The play examines the nature of relationships, self-identity, and the ethics of art

26.6.2021

8298

A Restaurant Lobby

This scene marks a significant turning point in Adam's transformation and highlights Evelyn's manipulative influence.

Adam's Changes

Adam begins to make noticeable changes to his appearance and lifestyle:

  • Starts going to the gym
  • Adopts a healthier diet
  • Gets a new haircut

Quote: E: "Plus, the hair" (p.15 1.9) Quote: E: "You're running, you're eating better, are you still lifting?" (p.16 II.16-17)

Pressure to Change

Adam feels obligated to make these changes to please Evelyn:

  • He engages in activities he's not used to
  • Feels pressured to continue even when he misses a day

Quote: A: "I mean, I didn't today, but..." E: "That's okay." A: "No, I'm gonna ..." (p.16 ll.16-20)

Motivation for Change

Adam admits that he's changing primarily for Evelyn, not for himself:

Quote: E: "Do you like doing it?" A: "Honestly... No. I totally hate it!" (p.16 11.22-23) E: "So why would you ... ?" A: "Because you suggested it. Which is kinda pathetic, but true..." (p.16 ll.25-27)

Evelyn's Manipulation

Evelyn employs various tactics to influence Adam's behavior:

  1. Positive Reinforcement:
    • Praises Adam's changes
    • Boosts his self-esteem and confidence

Quote: E: "And you amaze me, you do. Look at you!" (p.16 1.14)

  1. Encouragement of Further Change:
    • Makes Adam feel proud of his achievements
    • Implies that more changes are desirable

Quote: E: "I gave you a couple ideas and you're changing your entire life. I'm very proud of you." (p.17 Il.1-4)

  1. Building Trust:
    • Expresses affection for Adam
    • Encourages him to trust her judgment

Quote: E: "I do like you." (p.18 11.22) Quote: E: "So, don't you trust me, then, to know how I feel?" (p.18 1.29)

Highlight: Evelyn's manipulation techniques are subtle yet effective, gradually reshaping Adam's self-image and behavior.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

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Evelyn's Character Profile

This section provides a detailed look at Evelyn, the catalyst for Adam's transformation and a complex character in The Shape of Things.

Background

Evelyn's background is revealed gradually throughout the play:

  • Art student pursuing an M.F.A. in applied theory and criticism (p.12)
  • Working on a thesis project described as "a big installation thingie"
  • Identifies as an artist and sculptress (p.18)
  • Originally from Illinois, near Chicago (p.17)
  • Jewish heritage on her mother's side; mother's maiden name is Tessman (p.39)
  • Family name: Thompson (p.39)
  • 25 years old (p.17)
  • Zodiac sign: Gemini, born in June (p.17)

Highlight: Evelyn's artistic background plays a crucial role in her actions and motivations throughout the play.

Personal History

Evelyn shares some personal details that provide insight into her character:

  • Had rhinoplasty at age 16 (p.39)
  • Engaged in self-harm as a teenager to gain attention (p.42)

Vocabulary: Rhinoplasty - A surgical procedure to change the shape or size of the nose, commonly known as a "nose job."

Character Traits

Confidence and Assertiveness

  • Demonstrates boldness by attempting to deface a statue and refusing to back down (p. 8)
  • Expresses her opinions directly and forcefully

Example: During a debate about art with Phillip, Evelyn stands her ground, causing others to react with surprise: "Everyone except Evelyn sort of freezes on that one" (p.24)

Direct Communication Style

  • Openly comments on Adam's appearance: "You're cute. I don't like your hair..." (p.13)
  • Offers unsolicited advice: "You shouldn't style it so much" (p.13)

Passion for Art

  • Displays extensive knowledge about the statue in the museum (p.11)
  • Shows a strong dislike for art she considers inauthentic

Highlight: Evelyn's artistic passion and strong opinions foreshadow her controversial approach to her thesis project involving Adam.

Manipulation Techniques

Evelyn employs various strategies to influence Adam:

  1. Subtle Suggestions: Guides Adam's changes through seemingly casual comments
  2. Positive Reinforcement: Praises Adam's transformations, encouraging further changes
  3. Trust Building: Expresses affection and encourages Adam to trust her judgment
  4. Challenging Conventions: Pushes Adam outside his comfort zone, framing it as personal growth

Analysis: Evelyn's manipulation of Adam raises ethical questions about the boundaries between art, personal relationships, and consent in The Shape of Things play.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

Characters in The Shape of Things

This section introduces the main characters of the play, focusing on Adam and Evelyn.

Adam

Adam is initially portrayed as a shy, insecure young man working two jobs while preparing for further education. His character undergoes significant transformation throughout the play.

Background

  • Works as a security guard in a museum and at a video store
  • Plans to start his education after working for a year
  • Previously had feelings for Jenny but was too shy to act on them

Initial Characteristics

  • Described as nerdy and shy
  • Lacks self-confidence
  • Finds the courage to ask for Evelyn's number when they first meet

Transformation

Adam's life changes dramatically after meeting Evelyn:

  • Loses about 20 pounds
  • Grows out his hair
  • Improves his wardrobe
  • Stops biting his nails
  • Gains self-confidence

Highlight: Adam's physical transformation is rapid, but his internal changes are slower and more complex.

Behavior and Relationships

  • Becomes infatuated with Evelyn, thinking about her constantly
  • Still harbors some feelings for Jenny, as evidenced by kissing her
  • Sacrifices his principles for Evelyn, indicating low self-esteem
  • Allows Evelyn to control his life, becoming more of a central character in his own story

Character Development

  • External changes are swift and dramatic, primarily influenced by Evelyn
  • Internal changes are slower, with Adam still avoiding confrontations initially
  • By the end of the play, Adam shows significant personal growth, confronting Evelyn about her actions

Quote: "After Evelyn let the bomb explode he goes to her to start the conversation/the fight, he says what he thinks and shows that he is not okay with that he kind of finds and shows his red line" (p. 74-81)

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

THE SHAPE OF THINGS – CHARACTERS
Adam
Background
■
■
■
Direct Description
▪
■
■
■
works two jobs: security guard in a museum & also works in
keylock

Melde dich an, um den Inhalt freizuschalten. Es ist kostenlos!

Zugriff auf alle Dokumente

Werde Teil der Community

Verbessere deine Noten

Mit der Anmeldung akzeptierst du die Nutzungsbedingungen und die Datenschutzrichtlinie

Nichts passendes dabei? Erkunde andere Fachbereiche.

Knowunity ist die #1 unter den Bildungs-Apps in fünf europäischen Ländern

Knowunity wurde bei Apple als "Featured Story" ausgezeichnet und hat die App-Store-Charts in der Kategorie Bildung in Deutschland, Italien, Polen, der Schweiz und dem Vereinigten Königreich regelmäßig angeführt. Werde noch heute Mitglied bei Knowunity und hilf Millionen von Schüler:innen auf der ganzen Welt.

Ranked #1 Education App

Laden im

Google Play

Laden im

App Store

Knowunity ist die #1 unter den Bildungs-Apps in fünf europäischen Ländern

4.9+

Durchschnittliche App-Bewertung

13 M

Schüler:innen lieben Knowunity

#1

In Bildungs-App-Charts in 11 Ländern

950 K+

Schüler:innen haben Lernzettel hochgeladen

Immer noch nicht überzeugt? Schau dir an, was andere Schüler:innen sagen...

iOS User

Ich liebe diese App so sehr, ich benutze sie auch täglich. Ich empfehle Knowunity jedem!! Ich bin damit von einer 4 auf eine 1 gekommen :D

Philipp, iOS User

Die App ist sehr einfach und gut gestaltet. Bis jetzt habe ich immer alles gefunden, was ich gesucht habe :D

Lena, iOS Userin

Ich liebe diese App ❤️, ich benutze sie eigentlich immer, wenn ich lerne.