Intergenerational-Discrepancies-and-Alienation-in-Selected-Plays-by-Horton-Foote

ABSTRACT: This paper examines intergenerational discrepancies and consequent sense of
alienation in Horton Foote’s theatre, where traumatized youth are brought to life by dramatizing
their sufferings in coping with the elderly and transforming into positive and fruitful members in
American society. Foote also explores respective tropes, like alcoholism, death, and racism. The
subject matter of his plays illustrates the power of cohesion within the society. Foote’s plays
present a serious allegation of the parent’s personal intricacies and selfish exploitation of their
children; but their essential theme of alienation and intergenerational discrepancies deserves a
deeper view and treatment socially and psychologically.The paper shows the varying
manifestations of social status as a power (re)shaping the lives of young and old men. Foote
visualizes society as a fragmented, disappointed and alienated. He has fought against sentiments
of deprivation, deficiency, oppression, and alienation, advocating intimacy, adequacy, and
harmony between the two generations. The 20
th
cent. American playwright has recently received
recognition and praise for his narrative plays about the nuances of negotiations and conflicts
between the different generations within the same family. His talent emerged in developing
conditions for a better world, a harmonious one that should start with the two generations by
evoking real negotiations. His power came clear in illuminating the melancholic history of society
around him where the gaps and differences between generations come to surface.