Publikumsbeschimpfung und andere Sprechstücke

Public Insult and Other Speaking Pieces

These three pieces, devoid of plot, scene settings, and props, are speaking pieces constructed around the sound elements of beat music, making language itself the content. They are attempts to reclaim reality in theater through language. They utilize the natural forms of expression such as insults, self-accusation, confession, statements, questions, justifications, excuses, prophecies, and cries for help. In doing so, the author destroys the illusionary character of even modern plays: the performers are the observers, and the audience is the subject. By abolishing traditional theater, Handke creates a new form of theater.