In M. Butterfly by David Henry Hwang, French diplomat Rene Gallimard recalls his relationship with Chinese opera singer Song Liling, who he idealizes as the perfect woman. Their bond, initially driven by Gallimard's fantasies influenced by Puccini's Madame Butterfly, unravels as Song's true identity and motives challenge Gallimard's perceptions of reality and identity.

M. Butterfly by David Henry Hwang is widely praised for its intricate exploration of themes like identity, gender, and colonialism. Critics highlight its compelling narrative and provocative questioning of stereotypes. However, some feel the pacing can be slow and certain characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's regarded as a thought-provoking and engaging piece of theater.

Readers who appreciate M. Butterfly by David Henry Hwang are often drawn to narratives that explore themes of gender, race, and political intrigue. Fans of The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin or The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan may find similar complexity and cultural interplay appealing in this dramatic and thought-provoking play.

Mysterious / Romantic / Emotional / Bittersweet / Contemplative

- M. Butterfly by David Henry Hwang is a Tony Award-winning play, first debuting on Broadway in 1988, and was inspired by a real-life espionage scandal involving a French diplomat and a Chinese opera singer.
- The play is known for its complex exploration of themes like East-West relations, and gender, especially challenging Western perceptions of the East, by drawing parallels with the famous opera Madama Butterfly.
- David Henry Hwang became the first Asian American to win the Tony Award for Best Play with M. Butterfly, marking a significant milestone in American theater.

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Act I, Scenes 1-6

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Act I, Scenes 7-13

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Act II, Scenes 1-5

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