Lillian Hellman

Her Life and Legend

Through diaries, letters, government files, and interviews, Carl Rollyson draws a vital and vibrant portrait of the life, the work, and the legend of Lillian Hellman: America's most controversial radical playwright. Rollyson explores the sources and backgrounds of her best-selling memoirs, the development of her politics, her successful screenwriting career, and her famous appearance before the House Committee on Un-American Activities.

He provides entertaining and informative accounts of her feud with Mary McCarthy, and her many love affairs and surprising friendships. He also provides a provocative and compelling portrayal of this complex and brilliant woman, who was called everything from a "viper" and "a goddam liar" to "an empathetic genius with a highly original and penetrating mind." Near death, Hellman spoke of being blocked; this biography will show what got in her way.

©2008 Carl Rollyson (P)2015 Carl Rollyson