Description
As Human as Possible
Book Summary
As Human as Possible is a theatrical text that was awarded the 2003 Calderón de la Barca National Theater Prize. The play delves into a crucial period in the life of German writer Ernst Jünger, set in occupied Paris during the Second World War. Inspired by fragments of his diaries, the piece combines historical figures with newly created characters to offer a profound reflection on war, morality, and the human condition. A scenic proposal that invites us to question the limits of ethics in times of conflict.
What is it about?
The play is set in Paris during the Second World War, a scene of occupation and constant tension. The protagonist is the German writer and soldier Ernst Jünger, an intellectual figure who experienced the war from a privileged but also morally complex position. Based on a real fragment of his diaries, playwright David Abia constructs a plot that blends documented facts with fictional characters, creating a space for debate about individual responsibility in the face of collective horror. The work is not a war story in the usual sense, but an inquiry into the psychology of its characters, trapped between duty, conscience, and survival in a devastated environment.
Main themes
- War as a limit experience and its effects on individual morality.
- The conflict between military duty and personal conscience.
- The role of the intellectual in times of barbarism and their ethical responsibility.
- Historical memory and the reconstruction of the past through personal diaries.
- The moral ambiguity of witnesses and participants in contexts of occupation.
Who is it recommended for?
This work is aimed at readers interested in contemporary theater with historical and philosophical content, as well as students and professionals of the performing arts. It will also be of great interest to those seeking a literary and reflective approach to the Second World War from a less conventional perspective, centered on the psychology of the characters and moral dilemma.
What this book offers
- An award-winning theatrical work that offers an original and deep look at a complex historical period.
- A reflection on ethics and humanity in extreme situations, relevant beyond the historical context.
- The opportunity to learn about the figure of Ernst Jünger through a dramatic recreation that combines real facts and fiction.
- A text that stimulates debate and reflection, ideal for reading groups or theatrical productions.
Technical specifications
- Author: Abia, David
- Publisher: National Institute of Performing Arts and Music
- Language: Spanish
- Topic: Plays, theatrical texts
- Collection: Collection TBA
- Binding: Other
- Publication date: January 2004
- Number of pages: 87
- Weight: 400 g
Editorial review
As Human as Possible is presented as a play of great intellectual density, backed by a prestigious national award. Its value lies in its ability to address a complex historical subject from an intimate and moral perspective, avoiding manichaeism. It is a recommended read for those looking for theater that not only entertains but also provokes uncomfortable questions about human nature. Its brief length and focused approach make it an accessible yet profound piece, suitable for both individual reading and stage performance.