The Humans
The Humans
Book Brief
Beta164
Play • Fiction
Manhattan, New York City • 2010s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Humans by Stephen Karam is a play exploring the complexities of a family gathering on Thanksgiving. The play focuses on the Blake family as they navigate personal struggles, fears, and family dynamics in a deteriorating apartment. Themes of love, tension, and human vulnerability unfold through their interactions and conversations.
Emotional
Mysterious
Melancholic
Contemplative
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
1,667 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Humans by Stephen Karam is praised for its authentic portrayal of family dynamics and the raw depiction of modern anxieties. Critics commend its sharp dialogue and emotional depth, capturing both humor and pathos effectively. However, some feel the storyline's ambiguity may frustrate those desiring clear resolutions. Overall, it's a compelling narrative that resonates deeply.
Who Should Read The Humans?
Readers who appreciate The Humans by Stephen Karam enjoy nuanced family dynamics, existential themes, and dark humor. Fans of plays like Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman or Tracy Letts's August: Osage County will find similar emotional depth and complexity in the portrayal of flawed, relatable characters.
1,667 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Humans premiered Off-Broadway at the Laura Pels Theatre in 2015 before transferring to Broadway in 2016, where it earned widespread acclaim.
Stephen Karam's The Humans won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Play, highlighting its success and impact on contemporary theater.
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The play explores themes of family tension and rituals, set against the backdrop of a Thanksgiving dinner, and is known for its realistic portrayal of family dynamics and emotional depth.
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164
Play • Fiction
Manhattan, New York City • 2010s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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