* Eugene O'Neill (1888-1953): An American playwright known for his realism, psychological depth, and exploration of themes like addiction, family dynamics, and existentialism. Key works: "Long Day's Journey into Night," "The Iceman Cometh," "Desire Under the Elms."
* Tennessee Williams (1911-1983): An American playwright renowned for his poetic dialogue, sensitive portrayals of Southern life, and exploration of sexuality and loneliness. Key works: "A Streetcar Named Desire," "The Glass Menagerie," "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."
* Arthur Miller (1915-2005): An American playwright known for his social commentary and exploration of moral dilemmas, often set against a backdrop of American history. Key works: "Death of a Salesman," "The Crucible," "All My Sons."
* Samuel Beckett (1906-1989): An Irish playwright, novelist, and poet, known for his absurdist and minimalist works that explore themes of meaninglessness, alienation, and the human condition. Key works: "Waiting for Godot," "Endgame," "Happy Days."
It's important to note: This list is by no means exhaustive. Many other brilliant playwrights deserve recognition, such as:
* Bertolt Brecht (1898-1956) (German)
* Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980) (French)
* Luigi Pirandello (1867-1936) (Italian)
* Harold Pinter (1930-2008) (British)
* Tom Stoppard (born 1937) (British)
* Edward Albee (1928-2016) (American)
* August Wilson (1945-2005) (American)
* Lorca (1898-1936) (Spanish)
The 20th century was a rich period for theater, and these names represent just a few of the many brilliant voices that contributed to its evolution.