Commodification and Alienation in Edward Albee's Play The Sandbox

This research paper delves into the themes of alienation and commodification in American culture as depicted in Edward Albee's one-act drama, The Sandbox. Albee, known for his cynical observations of American society and the illusory American Dream, uses the play to explore the complexities of modern life through the perspectives and interactions of its characters. Through a close examination of the family members' dialogues and the symbol of the sandbox, this study aims to reveal the various ways in which the characters experience alienation and commodification. The significance of this research lies in its ability to shed light on the ways in which these behaviours manifest in contemporary society and how they are portrayed in literature.