proof david auburn script pdf
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Proof, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play by David Auburn, explores themes of genius, mental health, and family dynamics through the story of Catherine, a brilliant mathematician grappling with her father’s legacy and her own volatile emotions.
Overview of the Play
Proof by David Auburn centers on Catherine, a mathematician struggling with her father’s death and her own emotional turmoil, as she uncovers a groundbreaking proof that challenges her sanity and legacy.
2.1. Characters
The play revolves around four main characters: Catherine, Robert, Claire, and Hal. Catherine, a brilliant yet troubled mathematician, struggles with her father’s death and her own mental instability. Robert, her father, is a renowned mathematician whose genius is overshadowed by his erratic behavior. Claire, Catherine’s practical and estranged sister, seeks to take control of their father’s affairs. Hal, a former student of Robert’s, discovers a groundbreaking proof and becomes entangled in Catherine’s life. These characters’ complex relationships and emotional conflicts drive the story, exploring themes of brilliance, madness, and family bonds.
2.2. Setting
The story unfolds in Chicago, primarily on the back porch of the family’s house. This setting serves as a symbolic space where past and present collide. The porch, cluttered with remnants of Robert’s mathematical obsessions, reflects Catherine’s emotional turmoil. The city’s academic atmosphere underscores the intellectual weight of the family’s history. Time shifts between the present and flashbacks, adding depth to the narrative. The confined yet meaningful setting amplifies the characters’ emotional struggles, creating a poignant backdrop for their journey.
2.3. Plot Summary
The play revolves around Catherine, a young woman struggling with mental health and mathematical brilliance, following the death of her father, Robert, a renowned mathematician. As Catherine grapples with grief and her volatile emotions, her estranged sister, Claire, arrives, prompting tension over their father’s legacy. Meanwhile, Hal, a former student of Robert’s, discovers a groundbreaking mathematical proof in Robert’s notes, sparking debate over its authorship. Catherine asserts she wrote it, but Hal and Claire question her claim, fearing her instability. The story delves into family dynamics, intellectual brilliance, and the fine line between genius and madness, culminating in Catherine’s emotional journey to assert her identity and validate her work.
Themes in “Proof”
Proof by David Auburn delves into profound themes such as the fragility of genius, the complexities of family relationships, and the struggle with mental health. It examines the fine line between brilliance and madness, highlighting the emotional toll on Catherine as she navigates her father’s legacy. The play also explores the unknowability of love and the challenges of trust and identity. Through Catherine’s journey, Auburn raises questions about authorship and the validation of intellectual contributions, particularly for women in male-dominated fields. The interplay of these themes creates a rich tapestry that resonates deeply with audiences, offering a poignant reflection on human frailty and the pursuit of truth.
David Auburn: Background and Other Works
David Auburn is an American playwright and screenwriter, best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning play Proof. Born in 1969, Auburn grew up in Ohio and Arkansas before studying at the University of Chicago and later at Juilliard. His work often explores themes of family, identity, and intellectual pursuits. In addition to Proof, Auburn has written other notable plays, including Skyscraper, a dark comedy that premiered off-Broadway in 1997. He has also ventured into screenwriting, adapting Proof for film in 2005. Auburn’s writing is known for its nuanced character development and its ability to blend emotional depth with intellectual complexity, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary theater.
Availability of the Script
The Proof script by David Auburn is widely available in PDF format from official sources like Script Fly and Script City, as well as through educational platforms and theatrical websites.
5.1. Official Sources
The official script of Proof by David Auburn can be obtained from trusted sources like Dramatists Play Service, Inc., which handles licensing and distribution of the play. Additionally, the script is available in PDF format through reputable theatrical publishers and educational platforms, ensuring authenticity and compliance with copyright laws. Many official versions include introductory notes and character analyses, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the play’s depth; Purchasing or accessing the script from these official sources supports the creators and ensures a high-quality, unaltered version of the text. For academic or theatrical purposes, these sources are recommended to maintain the integrity of the work. Always verify the publisher’s credibility to avoid unauthorized or incomplete copies.
5.2. Alternative Sources
For those seeking alternative ways to access Proof, platforms like Scribd and Internet Archive offer free PDF downloads of the script. These sites often host user-uploaded content, making it accessible for educational or personal use. Additionally, websites such as Script-O-Rama and Script Fly provide free access to various versions of the play, including revised drafts. While these sources are convenient, they may lack the quality or authenticity of official versions. Some scripts found on these platforms might be incomplete or contain errors. Users should exercise caution and verify the reliability of the source to ensure they are downloading a legitimate version. Alternative sources are a practical option for those who cannot access official channels but should be used with awareness of their limitations.
Adaptations and Performances
Proof has been widely adapted and performed since its debut, with a successful film adaptation in 2005 starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Anthony Hopkins. The play premiered at the Manhattan Theatre Club in 2000 and later transferred to Broadway, earning critical acclaim and winning both the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award. Its emotional depth and intellectual themes resonated with audiences, making it a favorite in theaters worldwide. The story’s exploration of family dynamics and mental health continues to captivate audiences in various productions, solidifying its place as a modern theatrical masterpiece. Performances often highlight the complexity of Catherine’s character, showcasing her journey through grief, self-discovery, and the pursuit of mathematical brilliance. The play’s universal themes ensure its enduring relevance in contemporary theater.
Downloading the Script
The Proof script by David Auburn is widely available for download in PDF format from various sources. Official platforms like Script Fly and Dramatists Play Service offer authorized versions, ensuring quality and legality. Additionally, sites such as Scribd and Internet Archive provide free access to the script, though users should verify authenticity. Be cautious of unofficial sources to avoid copyright infringement. The script is also available through educational institutions and theater websites, often as part of study materials. For convenience, multiple versions exist, including revised drafts and transcripts, catering to different needs. Always opt for reputable sources to support the creator and ensure a genuine reading experience. Downloading Proof is a great way to delve into its compelling narrative and explore its themes of genius, family, and identity.
Proof by David Auburn is a masterful exploration of family, mental health, and intellectual brilliance. The play’s compelling narrative, centered around Catherine’s journey, has resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning it numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize. Its themes of love, loss, and the complexities of genius continue to captivate readers and theater enthusiasts. The availability of the script in PDF format has made it accessible for study and appreciation, allowing deeper engagement with its rich characters and emotional depth. Through its thought-provoking dialogue and nuanced character development, Proof remains a significant work in contemporary theatre, offering insights into the human condition and the fragility of the mind. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Auburn’s skillful storytelling and the universal relevance of its themes.