The Odd Couple

How does the staging of Oscar’s apartment reflect the state of his relationship with Felix?

SuperSummary defines satire as a device that “uses humor and exaggeration to criticize something or someone, typically a public figure, social norm, or government policy.” Discuss Simon’s use of satire in The Odd Couple.

While Simon suggests that Oscar and Felix are able to reconcile, this is never fully confirmed. Based on what we learn in Act 3, what do you think is in store for Oscar and Felix’s relationship after the play?

Though both Oscar and Felix have flaws, each man’s anger toward the other is considered justifiable, and neither is treated as “right” or “wrong.” How does this portrayal contribute to Simon’s overall message about marriage?

Blanche and Frances impact The Odd Couple despite never making a physical appearance in the play. Describe their influence on Oscar and Felix’s relationship.

How do the poker game participants provide insight into the state of Oscar and Felix’s relationship?

Neil Simon grew up in an unstable household during the Great Depression. How do you think that influenced the central themes of The Odd Couple?

While the main focus of the play is Oscar and Felix, Simon mentions other pairs, such as Murray and his wife, Vinnie and his wife, and the Pigeon sisters. How do the portrayal of these couples, romantic and otherwise, support Simon’s ideas about marriage?