Barefoot In The Park

During their first fight in Act One, Corie tells Paul: “I’m trying to get you all hot and bothered and you’re summing up for the jury. The whole marriage is over” (15). Explain how her statement exemplifies her and Paul’s characters and the conflict that ensues between them.

In her Act One conversation with Corie, Ethel tells her: “I worry about you two. You’re so impulsive. You jump into life. Paul is like me. He looks first” (26). Examine the similarities and differences between Paul and Ethel and their impact on Paul and Corie’s relationship conflict.

Describe the apartment’s transformation from Act One to Act Two, paying attention to what changes and what remains the same. Explore what the changes and consistencies represent thematically.