R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots)

Great play, that introduced the word "robot" into English, looks to a future in which all workers are automatons. Their revolt when they acquire souls (i.e., when they gain the ability to hate) and the resulting catastrophe make for a powerful and deeply moving theatrical experience. "It is murderous social satire, done in terms of the most hair-raising melodrama." €" Alexander Woolcott. "As awe-inspiring as anything we have ever seen in the theatre." €" Heywood Broun. Paul Selver translation.