The Little French Lawyer: A Comedy

by Francis Beaumont

"The Little French Lawyer: A Comedy" by Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher is a comedic play likely written in the early 17th century. The storyline is set in France and involves themes of love, honor, and rivalry among various characters. Central to the unfolding drama is Dinant, who is in conflict over his feelings for Lamira, who is now married to the old and disabled Champernel. The opening of the play introduces Dinant and his friend Cleremont, who discuss the challenges of honor in dueling and relationships. Dinant expresses his ongoing affection for Lamira, the wife of Champernel, which incites tension among the characters. As the plot unfolds, Dinant decides to confront his rival openly, resulting in challenges and misunderstandings that set the stage for comedic exchanges and deeper explorations of honor and loyalty. Characters such as Champernel and the whimsical lawyer Monsieur La Writt further complicate the narrative with their distinctive personalities and involvement in the conflicts of the young lovers.