The Miracle Worker Summary Act I

By 'Author's Name'

January 1st, Year

In this article, we will provide a detailed summary of act one from William Gibson's play 'The Miracle Worker,' which tells the true story of deaf-blind author and disability advocate Helen Keller.

Act One: The Early Life of Helen Keller

The play begins in an Alabama farmhouse on a hot summer day in 1887. We are introduced to Kate (also spelled Katie) Keller, who is desperate for help with her six-year-old daughter, Helen, who has been deaf-blind since birth due to a high fever.

As the act progresses, we learn about Helen's early life and her relationship with her older sister, Elizabeth (or 'Pitty'). Despite numerous attempts by family members and various teachers to communicate with Helen, she remains completely isolated from the world around her. Her only forms of expression are physical outbursts and violent behavior.

Enter Annie Sullivan

In an attempt to break through to Helen, Kate sends for a new teacher named Anne (also spelled 'Annie') Sullivan. Born deaf-blind herself, Annie has been told that there is no hope in teaching the severely disabled. However, undeterred by this pessimism, she arrives at the Keller farm determined to make progress with her new charge.

As act one draws to a close, we witness an intense confrontation between Helen and her teacher as they struggle for control over their lives. Through a series of tense interactions, it becomes clear that only through mutual understanding can Annie break down the barriers separating her from her deaf-blind pupil.

In conclusion, this summary provides an overview of key events in act one of 'The Miracle Worker.' The play follows Helen Keller's journey towards independence and self-discovery under the guidance of her dedicated teacher, Anne Sullivan.

The miracle worker summary act 1