Page 1: Setting the Scene

The opening page of The Pushcart Peddlers introduces us to the main characters and the setting of the play. We are immediately thrust into the world of street vendors on the waterfront of New York City, where appearances often clash with reality.

Vocabulary: Pushcart Peddlers - street vendors who sell goods from wheeled carts.

The play's protagonists, Shimmel and Cornelius, are presented in contrast to each other. Cornelius attempts to portray himself as a long-time successful businessman, despite having only been in the area for a day. This juxtaposition between reality and make-believe sets the tone for the entire play.

Example: Cornelius claims to have been in business "his whole life" when in reality he's just started.

The characters' appearances and financial situations are described in detail, emphasizing their humble circumstances:

Quote: "$43.75" - the meager amount of money possessed by one of the characters, highlighting their poverty.

The setting is vividly portrayed, with mentions of trashcans and the waterfront, creating a gritty urban backdrop for the story to unfold. The characters' desires for a better life are contrasted with their current situations, showcasing the theme of aspiration versus reality that runs throughout the play.

Highlight: The characters' attempts to adopt "American" names and mannerisms reflect their desire to assimilate and achieve success in their new country.

Overall Summary of The Pushcart Peddlers

The Pushcart Peddlers is a comedic play by Murray Schisgal that offers a poignant commentary on immigration and the pursuit of the American Dream. Set on the waterfront of New York City, the story revolves around street vendors trying to make a living while reinventing their identities. The play contrasts the harsh realities faced by immigrants with their aspirational desires, using humor and sharp dialogue to highlight cultural clashes and critique the naive belief in instant success in America.

Highlight: The play uses the selling of everyday items like bananas and flowers as a metaphor for the immigrant experience of trying to establish oneself in a new country.

Key themes explored include: • The struggle between reality and make-believe • The desire for reinvention and a fresh start • The complexities of cultural assimilation • The allure and pitfalls of the American Dream • The use of humor to address serious social issues

Through its characters and their interactions, The Pushcart Peddlers PDF provides a nuanced look at the immigrant experience in America, challenging viewers to consider the gap between expectations and reality for those seeking a new life in the United States.