Arthur Miller’s one-act play centers on a group of men detained in Vichy, France during World War II. As they anxiously wait for inspection to determine whether they are inferior under the Nazi’s racial laws, the men come to terms with their situation and must decide what to do in the face of the unknown. Do they fight and risk mortal danger, or conform and hope for survival? Bayard, a young Socialist, argues for an intellectual rebellion, while Marchand impatiently waits for what he is confident will be a quick release. There is also an Austrian prince detained for his accent. He grapples with his complacency even though he has denounced the Nazis. The play is a grim character study and examines how the horrors of the Holocaust were able to happen. It is less well-known than Miller’s other plays but still a valuable part of his canon.
Incident at Vichy guide sections
