Dürrenmatt: die alte Dame und die neue Gegenwart

Abstract

The essay is a brief analysis of Friedrich Dürrenmatt's Der Besuch der alten Dame, highlighting both the instability of human nature and the transformation of humanitarian ideals into practical necessities. The play, characterized as a ‘tragic comedy’, depicts the confrontation between the impoverished citizens of Güllen and the wealthy returnee Claire, which raises questions about justice. Claire's return is initially seen as an opportunity for justice but gradually reveals a distorted understanding of it, intertwined with her desire for revenge against Ill. The narrative reflects a growing moral corruption within the community, where the anticipation of wealth overrides ethical considerations. Dürrenmatt critiques the inadequacy of classical tragedy in a bureaucratic world and suggests that grotesque comedy’s distancing humour is essential to address the tragic nature of existence. The play engages with contemporary social issues and encourages reflection on how economic pressure shapes moral boundaries, making Dürrenmatt's work relevant in both post-war and modern contexts, particularly with regard to globalization and collective guilt.