• Transcript
  Hans Fischer - Mr. Albee, is it possible to see Nick and Honey as representing young George and Martha? It would then mean that after 22 years of marriage Geoge and Martha would finally think about what has gone wrong in their relation. Or is this not how you would like to see your play?

  Edward Albee - Well, I can't stop anybody from thinking that way, if they want to. But none of the characters in "Who's Afraid of Virginia" are metaphorical. They are real people in real situations. These people are not representatives. Nick and Honey are not representatives of George and Martha 20 years later. They are representatives of themselves only.

  Hans Fischer - Thank you very much.

1. George
Initial Presentation
George is a middle-aged history professor, seemingly mild-mannered, intelligent, and somewhat cynical. He is overshadowed by his wife, Martha, and appears passive in many situations.

Development
As the night progresses, George’s intellect and strategic cruelty emerge. He oscillates between vulnerability and manipulation, showing deep-seated resentment, insecurity, and bitterness.

Key Insight
George’s development is less about change and more about exposing his hidden self. He starts as a seemingly defeated, passive character, but gradually asserts power over Martha and the illusions they share, especially with the revelation of their “son” being imaginary.

Motivations
George is frustrated with his stagnant career and life. He wants recognition and validation, but often feels powerless. He hides his vulnerability and deep dissatisfaction behind sarcasm, wit, and cruelty.

2. Martha

Initial Presentation
Martha is brash, domineering, and sharp-tongued. She seems confident, controlling, and socially aggressive, often belittling George and her guests.

Development
Martha’s veneer of control cracks as the night unfolds. Her insecurities, vulnerability, and longing for validation come to the surface. Through her verbal sparring, we see her dependence on George and her deep emotional scars.

Key Insight
Martha’s character development involves the exposure of her emotional fragility, showing that her aggression masks loneliness, disappointment, and fear of insignificance.

Motivations
She wants acknowledgment and admiration, which she doesn’t receive from her father or husband.

3. Nick

Initial Presentation
A young biology professor, seemingly charming, ambitious, and confident. He appears as the 'outsider,' detached from George and Martha’s destructive games.

Development
As he becomes embroiled in George and Martha’s dynamics, Nick’s arrogance and moral ambiguity are revealed. He is manipulated and challenged, showing selfishness, desire, and weakness.

Key Insight
Nick’s development demonstrates how the younger generation can be complicit in, or corrupted by, older generational dysfunction. He starts as confident but ends exposed and morally compromised..

Motivations
Nick is driven by ambition, seeking status and security in his professional life.

4. Honey

Initial Presentation
Nick’s wife, timid, genteel, and socially awkward. She appears naïve and fragile.

Development
Honey’s development is subtle but crucial. Through her interactions, particularly after revealing the disturbing truth about her fertility, she evolves from a passive observer to someone confronted by harsh realities, showing vulnerability, fear, and suppressed anger.

Key Insight
Honey’s character demonstrates the quiet, often overlooked consequences of societal and marital pressures. She embodies fragility and the cost of denial.

Motivations
Honey tends to comply or withdraw to maintain peace and avoid confrontation. She seeks a comfortable, predictable life, which makes her reactive rather than proactive in crises.