Menu
 
 
Home | Books | Lillian Hellman: The life and legend of America’s most controversial playwright

Lillian Hellman: The life and legend of America’s most controversial playwright

Through diaries, letters, government files, and interviews Carl Rollyson draws a vital and vibrant portrait of the life, the work, and the legend of Lillian Hellman, America’s most controversial radical playwright.

Rollyson explores the sources and backgrounds of her best-selling memoirs, the development of her politics, her successful screenwriting career, and her famous appearance before the House Committee on Un-American Activities. He provides entertaining and informative accounts of her feud with Mary McCarthy, her many love affairs and surprising friendships.

Lilian Hellman is a provocative and compelling portrayal of this complex and brilliant woman, who was called everything from a “viper”, “a goddam liar” to “an empathetic genius with a highly original and penetrating mind.” Near death, Hellman spoke of being blocked; this biography will show what got in her way.

Praise for Carl Rollyson

‘Meticulous narrative’ – New York Times Book Review

‘Recommended for both lay readers and scholars’ – Library Journal

 
 
 
Contact Lume Books | Lume Books
 

Say Hello

Learn more about how to contact us.

This site uses cookies.
ConfigureHide Options
 
Read our privacy policy

This site uses cookies for marketing, personalisation, and analysis purposes. You can opt out of this at any time or view our full privacy policy for more information.