Let's be clear: this isn't a cozy bedtime story. Der brennende Dornbusch; Mörder: Hoffnung der Frauen (The Burning Bush; Murderer: Hope of Women) is a short, explosive Expressionist play that hits you like a punch to the gut.

The Story

The plot is stripped down to its bare, screaming essentials. A group of soldiers arrives at a fortress. Their leader, a nameless Man, encounters a nameless Woman and her female companions. What follows is a violent, symbolic clash. They aren't just arguing; they're fighting for their very souls. The Man brands the Woman, she has him imprisoned, and their struggle escalates into a life-and-death ritual. It’s less about specific events and more about the terrifying energy that explodes between them.

Why You Should Read It

I was blown away by its sheer intensity. Written in 1909, it completely shreds the rules of polite society and traditional theatre. Kokoschka paints with words like he did with paint—using bold, jarring strokes. It's about the war between the sexes, yes, but also about the chaos of desire, the violence of creation, and the desperate search for meaning. The characters aren't "likable" in a normal sense; they're forces of nature. Reading it feels like watching a thunderstorm from way too close.

Final Verdict

This is a book for the curious and the brave. Perfect for anyone interested in the roots of modern art and theatre, fans of raw, psychological drama, or readers who want to experience a historical text that still feels dangerously alive. If you love tidy plots and clear answers, steer clear. But if you want to feel the crackle of artistic rebellion from over a century ago, dive in. It's a short, unforgettable shock to the system.