COSI
... of mental asylum patients, our own current views of the mentally ill are brought into question. The different values presented on love and gender relationships, the chief concern of the opera, invite our own consideration of such issues. The temporal setting of the drama in the midst of the sexual and social revolution of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s and against the backdrop of the Vietnam moratorium provides further opportunity to examine how the characters and the audience make meaning by adopting specific perspectives. The pre-reading activities encourage you to consider your own perspective on some of the important issues prior to a detailed study of the text. You can then revisit your perceptions and consider any change. The study guide activities are designed to encourage you consciously to examine the perspective of the various characters as they are confronted with different issues throughout the play. It should also provide you with a sound understanding of the characters and the main issues that are developed through the play. The focus is on the protagonist, Lewis, as he is transformed through his ...