Mr. Antrobus - The patriarch of the Antrobus family, representing Adam and everyman. He is an inventor and philosopher trying to advance human knowledge and civilization.

Mrs. Antrobus (Maggie) - Mr. Antrobus's wife, representing Eve and the eternal mother figure. She is pragmatic and keeps the family together through various disasters.

Gladys Antrobus - The Antrobus daughter, representing human sexuality and procreation. She is chastised by her mother for pulling up her dress.

Henry Antrobus (Cain) - The Antrobus son, representing violence and aggression. He kills his brother with a rock.

Sabina - The Antrobus family's maid and temptress figure, representing the eternal seductress. She is linked to Eve's temptress side and the Talmudic figure Lilith.

Mr. Fitzpatrick - The Stage Manager character who breaks the fourth wall and interacts with the audience.

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Humanity's Indomitable Will to Survive
The Antrobus family represents all of humankind, facing and overcoming three cataclysmic events - an ice age, a great flood, and a catastrophic war - by the skin of their teeth. The play celebrates humanity's ability to endure and rebuild in the face of near-extinction events.

Cyclical Nature of Human History
Wilder employs a cyclical plot structure, with the play ending by repeating the beginning, suggesting that the cycle of human experience is endlessly repeated. This reinforces the idea that human nature and struggles are universal across time and cultures.

Experimental Theatrical Techniques
Wilder breaks from traditional theatrical conventions by using innovative techniques like direct audience address, anachronistic references, and the juxtaposition of the absurd with the philosophical. This challenges the audience's assumptions about theater and reflects the modern human experience.

Biblical and Mythological Allusions
The play incorporates references to the Old and New Testaments, Greek mythology, and other classic works, positioning the Antrobus family as archetypal figures representing the human condition across different belief systems and eras.

Themes of Resilience, Family, and Morality
At its core, the play explores timeless themes of human resilience, the bonds of family, and the moral choices individuals must make to ensure the survival of humanity, despite personal flaws and societal challenges.

In summary, "The Skin of Our Teeth" is a thought-provoking and unconventional work that uses an allegorical family to examine the enduring nature of the human spirit and the cyclical patterns of history through a blend of satire, farce, and philosophical contemplation.

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The general perception of the play can be summarized in several key points:

Innovative Structure and Style
The play is noted for its unconventional narrative structure and breaking of the fourth wall. It blends elements of farce, satire, and allegory, and uses anachronisms to blur the lines between past, present, and future. This innovative approach has been praised for its originality and creativity.

Themes of Resilience and Survival
At its core, the play deals with themes of human resilience and the cyclical nature of history. It follows the Antrobus family through various apocalyptic events, symbolizing the enduring spirit of humanity. This theme resonated strongly during the time of its release, amidst the turmoil of World War II, and continues to be relevant.

Reception at Debut
Upon its release, the play received mixed reactions. Some critics and audience members were perplexed by its non-traditional format and ambitious narrative. However, it was also praised for its boldness and depth, with some hailing it as a masterpiece.

Critical Acclaim and Awards
Despite the initial mixed reactions, "The Skin of Our Teeth" won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1943, cementing its status as a significant work in American theater. Over time, it has been studied and celebrated for its literary and theatrical innovations.

Influence and Legacy
The play has had a lasting impact on American theater and is frequently revived. Its influence can be seen in subsequent works that experiment with form and content. It has been interpreted in various ways over the decades, reflecting changing societal contexts.

In summary, "The Skin of Our Teeth" is generally perceived as a groundbreaking and thought-provoking play that challenged conventional theater norms and explored profound themes of human perseverance and historical continuity. Its initial reception evolved into critical acclaim, and it remains a significant and influential piece in the canon of American drama.

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