Natella Abashwili

Definition

Natella Abashwili is a character from Bertolt Brecht's play 'The Caucasian Chalk Circle'. She represents the archetype of a privileged and selfish aristocrat, whose actions and decisions impact the fate of others, particularly during a time of social upheaval. Her character serves as a critique of the bourgeoisie and illustrates the themes of motherhood, ownership, and justice within the context of the play.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Natella Abashwili is primarily depicted as self-centered, concerned more about her material possessions than her child, which underscores her privilege.
2. Her character contrasts sharply with Grusha, another key figure in 'The Caucasian Chalk Circle', who represents selflessness and true maternal instinct.
3. The struggle between Natella and Grusha for custody of the child symbolizes larger societal conflicts between the upper class and the working class.
4. Brecht uses Natella to highlight themes of justice, as her entitlement creates an ironic twist when she believes she deserves her child back despite her neglect.
5. Natella's downfall is ultimately tied to her inability to understand love and sacrifice, making her a pivotal example of Brecht's critique of capitalist values.

Review Questions

• How does Natella Abashwili embody the characteristics of privilege and selfishness in 'The Caucasian Chalk Circle'?
  • Natella Abashwili embodies privilege and selfishness through her actions and priorities. She is more concerned with her material possessions than the well-being of her child. This self-centered behavior highlights her status as an aristocrat who believes she deserves what she wants without considering the needs or rights of others. Her detachment from genuine maternal instincts creates a stark contrast with characters like Grusha, who showcases true sacrifice.
• Analyze the relationship between Natella Abashwili and Grusha in terms of their differing views on motherhood in 'The Caucasian Chalk Circle'.
  • The relationship between Natella Abashwili and Grusha is fundamentally defined by their contrasting views on motherhood. Natella's approach is rooted in entitlement; she sees motherhood as a possession linked to her status. In stark contrast, Grusha's experience is shaped by her deep commitment to nurturing and protecting the child she adopts. This dichotomy raises important questions about what it means to be a mother, ultimately portraying that true motherhood lies in love and sacrifice rather than social standing or ownership.
• Evaluate how Natella Abashwili's character contributes to Brecht's critique of societal structures in 'The Caucasian Chalk Circle'.
  • Natella Abashwili's character significantly contributes to Brecht's critique of societal structures by illustrating the moral failings of the privileged elite. Her actions reveal how wealth and status can corrupt one's sense of responsibility, particularly towards those less fortunate. Through her entitlement and lack of true maternal care, Brecht critiques capitalist values that prioritize ownership over human connection. This reflection on social inequality prompts audiences to question broader societal norms about justice, motherhood, and morality.

Related terms

Bertolt Brecht: A German playwright and poet known for developing the concept of 'Epic Theatre', which emphasizes the audience's critical engagement with the performance rather than emotional immersion.

Caucasian Chalk Circle: A play by Bertolt Brecht that explores themes of justice and motherhood through a parable about a contested child, set against the backdrop of revolution and social change.

Mother Courage: The central character in Brecht's play 'Mother Courage and Her Children', who embodies the struggles of a mother trying to protect her children during wartime while simultaneously profiting from the war.