As Objectivists familiar with Ayn Rand's esthetic theory, we understand the importance of art conceptually; unfortunately, because of the bankruptcy of American education, many of us do not appreciate it viscerally. Consequently, we are deprived of the deep satisfaction to be gained from great literature.

In this course, Ms. VanDamme discusses and analyzes three plays: The Browning Version, by Terence Rattigan; The Miracle Worker, by William Gibson, and Inherit the Wind, by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee. Each of these plays offers a concretized presentation of values held deeply by Objectivists (even if they contain philosophic errors).

Ms. VanDamme uses the method of analysis presented in The Romantic Manifesto and in Leonard Peikoff's "Eight Great Plays," discussing the plot, plot-theme, characterization, theme and underlying philosophy of each work. All the while, she emphasizes the intense personal value to be gained from reading.