Author
Nicolas-Marc Desfontaines
Died 1652
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WikipediaBooks by Nicolas-Marc Desfontaines
Eurimedon: L'illustre pirate
"Eurimedon: L'illustre pirate" by Nicolas-Marc Desfontaines is a tragédie-comédie written in the early 17th century. The work follows the story of Eurimedon, a noble figure entangled in a complex narrative of love, valor, and rivalry as he navigates the treacherous waters of romance and conflict with figures such as Pasithée and Tygrane. The setting unfolds largely in the mythic landscape of ancient Greece, imbued with themes of heroism and tragedy. The opening of the play introduces us to Eurimedon, who has just returned from a perilous voyage that involved saving Pasithée, a captive princess, from the clutches of pirates. As the story begins, Eurimedon expresses his relief and joy at bringing the princess back to her homeland, while also grappling with his feelings for her and the political landscapes complicating their relationship. Amidst the unfolding drama, rivalries emerge, particularly from Tygrane, a prince who challenges Eurimedon's place in Pasithée's affections, setting the stage for conflicts that intertwine themes of honor, ambition, and unrequited love. The narrative is rich with character interactions that hint at deeper intrigues among the royal courts and the struggles associated with love in a tumultuous environment.
L'illustre Olympie, ou Le St Alexis: Tragedie
"L'illustre Olympie, ou Le St Alexis: Tragédie" by Nicolas-Marc Desfontaines is a dramatic tragedy written in the early 17th century. The narrative centers around the themes of love, virtue, and duty, focusing on the character of Saint Alexis, who is faced with a profound moral choice between his duties to his family and his love for his wife, Olympie. The play intertwines themes of loyalty and sacrifice, as well as the societal pressures of ancient Rome. The opening of the tragedy introduces the character of Alexis, the son of a Roman senator, Euphemien, who is bound by his father's wishes to pursue a marriage with Olympie. However, Alexis is filled with inner turmoil, as divine commands lead him to abandon his marriage for a higher calling. Meanwhile, Olympie displays unwavering fidelity and love toward Alexis despite his absence, showcasing her resilience in the face of societal and personal challenges. The characters are drawn into a web of unfulfilled desires and virtuous obligations, setting the stage for subsequent conflict and emotional depth intrinsic to the story.
L'illustre comédien, ou Le martyre de Sainct Genest
"L'illustre comédien, ou Le martyre de Sainct Genest" by Nicolas-Marc Desfontaines is a tragedy written in the mid-17th century. The play dramatizes the struggle between the Roman Emperor Diocletian and the Christian character Genest, who represents steadfast faith in the face of persecution. As a central figure within the narrative, Genest's conflict encapsulates broader themes of faith, power, and sacrifice, promising a rich exploration of moral dilemmas faced by individuals in oppressive regimes. At the start of the tragedy, the setting is established in the palace of the Emperor Diocletian in Rome. The initial scenes introduce Diocletian and his advisors discussing the growing influence of Christianity, which they perceive as a threat to their authority. Shortly thereafter, Genest, along with his friends, arrives, showcasing his skills as a comedian while grappling with the imperial expectations and the oppression faced by Christians. As the tension unfolds, Genest's convictions lead him to challenge the authority of the Emperor, foreshadowing a conflict that will test his resolve and highlight the dangers of remaining true to one's beliefs in a hostile environment. This opening portion effectively sets the stage for a dramatic collision of ideals, eliciting curiosity about the characters' fates and the moral questions that arise throughout the narrative.
La vraye suitte du Cid Tragi-comédie représentée par la troupe royale
"La vraye suitte du Cid" by Nicolas-Marc Desfontaines is a tragicomedy written in the early 17th century. The play continues the story of the well-known character El Cid, exploring romantic and political themes as it delves into the tensions between love, honor, and royal duty. The central figures that emerge prominently from the beginning are Rodrigue, also known as the Cid, and Chimene, a woman torn between her love for Rodrigue and the legacy of her father's death at his hands. At the start of the play, the Infante converses with Chimene about the potential allure of royal power and questions her disinterest in marrying the King. Chimene expresses loyalty to Rodrigue despite the dangers their love presents, grappling with her feelings of betrayal and her family's honor. Simultaneously, there are hints of political maneuvering, as the Infante suggests that Rodrigue's rising fame and success may lead to a shift in Chimene's affections. As the characters navigate their complex emotions and obligations, the stage is set for a struggle between personal desires and societal expectations in a richly woven narrative.