Written in 1934, Lillian Hellman’s potent exploration of the power of lies – and the culture of fear which allows them to thrive – remains startlingly relevant in our era of ”fake news” and online deception. Lifelong friends Karen and Martha are the headmistresses of a prestigious all-girls boardi..Written in 1934, Lillian Hellman’s potent exploration of the power of lies – and the culture of fear which allows them to thrive – remains startlingly relevant in our era of ”fake news” and online deception. Lifelong friends Karen and Martha are the headmistresses of a prestigious all-girls boarding school in a small New England town. When a vengeful pupil whispers a rumor that the two women are having an affair, it triggers a devastating chain of consequences. At the peril of destroying their careers, their relationships, and their lives, Karen and Martha courageously risk public shame and fight for the truth to be heard.