Der Messingkauf

Messingkauf, Der, an extended, but unfinished, dialogue by B. Brecht, written between 1937 and 1951, and published in vol. 5 of Schriften zum Theater (7 vols., 1963-4). It discusses epic theatre (see Episches Theater) and extends over four nights, during each of which a specific aspect is reviewed. In the epilogue the Dramaturg, Schauspieler, and Philosoph are joined by the Arbeiter, who speaks the words: ‘Ändert die Welt, sie braucht es!’ The title alludes to a story of a man who buys brass musical instruments solely for their metal.