The Odd Couple

The Odd Couple is classified as a satire. Satire uses humor and exaggeration to criticize something or someone, typically a public figure, social norm, or government policy. In The Odd Couple, Simon’s satirical target is marriage. Society frequently places marriage (in particular, heterosexual marriage) on a pedestal. Certain religions banned or heavily stigmatized divorces, and people are taught to view marriage as the most sacred form of partnership. As such, couples are frequently pressured to power through any struggles in their union, even if it comes at a great detriment. Oscar and Felix contributed to the end of their respective marriages by refusing to reflect on their flaws and compromise with their wives. Though they each express regret at their divorces, it is quickly apparent that neither is willing to learn from their experiences, and they remain stuck in their ways. This results in a second divorce of sorts and concludes with Oscar begging Felix to leave so that they can salvage their friendship: “Felix, we’ve been friends a long time. For the sake of that friendship, please say, ‘Oscar, we can’t stand each other, let’s break up’” (82).

Prior to living together, Oscar and Felix were close friends.