Catherine GreggProfessor LeVanTHE 44012 March 2014Critical analysis of "Wit"The work "Wit" was the first work written by Margaret Edson. This specific production of Wit was first produced on October 31, 1997 in New Haven, Connecticut by the Long Wharf Theatre. The following September it was produced by MCC in New York. On January 7 of the following year (1999) it was produced by the MCC Theatre, the Long Wharf Theater and the Union Square Theater in New York City. Although the actors in the production were different, the main characters including Vivian, Dr. Kelekian, Jason, Susie, E.M. Ashford, laboratory technicians, programming team members, students and residents are retained. Although Edson's current occupation was an elementary school teacher, he previously worked at a cancer and AIDS research hospital. While working at a research hospital, Edson most likely witnessed many things that would be considered inappropriate and degrading. His experience working with people suffering from chronic illnesses such as cancer and AIDS was most likely at the heart of the creation of "Wit". Most of the show took place in a hospital room at University Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center. The conflict at the heart of this play is the low quality of care and lack of genuine concern for patients in hospital settings. The script between pages 8 and 17 demonstrates that the quality of care offered by many staff members at this specific cancer hospital is not provided out of patient concern. Throughout the entire production of "Wit", the lack of communication and professionalism, disrespect, and inappropriate and degrading actions of the cancer hospital staff are abundantly evident in every scene, including... middle of paper.. . he also makes rude gestures while she complains about having to go find Vivian a chair. Many times an individual's personality can be evident from facial expressions and body gestures. Although Vivian has lived a life as a tough individual, approaching death is a scary time. Vivian should have been treated with more respect, professionalism, better communication and dignity. I believe she could have had a better outcome in her healing process, although despite the fatality of her illness she would have at least died in peace and dignity. Although Vivian had no one to help consciously guide her through her decisions regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for recovery, the hospital staff should have been more concerned with advocating for her than using her for research.