The play is entitled Seduction of the Innocent and tells the story of Wertham's life, ambitions and career both as a psychiatrist and a pop culture commentator. Beginning with his work with troubled youth as a psychiatrist, the play goes into the events leading up to his infamous book and the cultural fallout that resulted, as well as the effect it had on Dr. Wertham's life. The play is written and directed by Lenny Schwartz.
Wertham was a German American psychiatrist and author known for his work with disadvantaged children before he became an ardent critic of comics. Some advocates referenced his work in legal challenges to segregation practices.
Wertham commented on the influence of violent media in general, such as horror movies, but is arguably best known for his advocacy against comics. Seduction of the Innocent was the subject of significant media attention and played a major role in the formation of the Comics Code Authority by the comics industry. The results of his work include but are not limited to court hearings with leaders in the comic book industry, the closure of many comic companies and the cancellation of hundreds of titles deemed unsuitable by censors. His media research has since come under criticism from scholars who argue that Dr. Wertham used dubious methods and, in some cases, misrepresented his findings.
Seduction of the Innocent will be showing from Nov. 14-16 and 21-23 at 8 p.m. All performances will be at the Rise Playhouse at 142 Clinton St. Woonsocket, RI. Tickets are $15.