Die Mutter (1951). John Heartfield (German, 1891-1968). Poster.
Based on Gorky’s 1906 novel of the same name, Brecht’s play The Mother tackles issues of activism against tyranny, the greater good, the necessity of struggle, the horrors of capitalism, and other frequently called-upon ideas of the famous Communist writer. While it debuted in 1932, this poster is for its 1951 revival, with Helene Weigel playing the title role she originated nearly two decades earlier.










