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French drama Books
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Molière
The Middle-Class Gentleman
"The Middle-Class Gentleman" by Molière is a five-act comédie-ballet first performed in 1670 before the court of Louis XIV. The play satirizes social climbing through Monsieur Jourdain, a middle-aged merchant's son desperately trying to become an aristocrat. He hires teachers in fencing, dancing, and philosophy, making a fool of himself at every turn. When he refuses to let his daughter marry her middle-class beloved, insisting on a nobleman instead, a clever scheme unfolds involving an elaborate Turkish disguise that plays perfectly to his absurd ambitions.
Eugène Brieux
Woman on Her Own, False Gods and The Red Robe Three Plays By Brieux
"Woman on Her Own, False Gods and The Red Robe" by Eugène Brieux is a collection of three plays written in the early 20th century. The works examine themes of women's independence, societal expectations, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals, particularly within the context of marriage and work. The opening play focuses on the character Thérèse, a young woman navigating her newfound independence in a world that challenges traditional gender roles. At the start of "Woman on Her Own," we are introduced to Thérèse, an aspiring actress engaged in a performance amidst personal turmoil. Her godparents, Madame and Monsieur Guéret, are grappling with financial ruin while trying to shield her from the harsh realities of their situation. Thérèse has recently learned of her own financial misfortune, which impacts her engagement to René, a young man concerned about his family's disapproval. As she contemplates her future, Thérèse expresses a strong desire for independence and self-sufficiency, ultimately deciding to pursue a career in writing rather than conform to societal expectations. The opening sets the stage for her struggle to assert her identity in a rapidly changing world, offering a glimpse into the complex dynamics of love, ambition, and the quest for personal agency.
Molière
The Shopkeeper Turned Gentleman
"The Shopkeeper Turned Gentleman" by Molière is a comedic play written in the late 17th century. This work centers around Monsieur Jourdain, a wealthy shopkeeper aspiring to rise in social status. Through his attempts to adopt the manners and attitudes of the aristocracy, he becomes a target for satire, highlighting the absurdities of social pretensions and class distinctions. The opening of the play introduces us to Mr. Jourdain, who is surrounded by various masters he has hired to teach him music, dancing, and fencing, demonstrating his eagerness to cultivate a genteel lifestyle. Dialogue among the musicians and dancers reveals their mixed feelings about Jourdain's lack of true artistic appreciation juxtaposed with his financial support. As the scene unfolds, we see Jourdain eagerly anticipating the arrival of guests, revealing his ignorance and naivety in trying to impress those of higher status, setting the stage for the comedic misunderstandings and social commentary that will follow.
Judith Gautier
Le paravent de soie et d'or
"Le paravent de soie et d'or" by Judith Gautier is a historical fiction narrative written in the early 20th century. The story, set against the backdrop of Annam (modern-day Vietnam), introduces readers to themes of heroism, honor, and the struggles of a kingdom under duress. The main characters include the noble prince Lée-Line and the fierce warrior queen Fleur-Royale, who embody courage and leadership in the face of tyranny and war. The opening of the narrative depicts serene natural scenes juxtaposed with an impending sense of conflict. A young buffalo herder enjoys the tranquil rhythm of his song, unaware of the distant rumblings of war. This tranquility is shattered by the arrival of two weary warriors, one of whom bears a wound, revealing a connection to the royal lineage and hinting at deeper struggles within the Annamese court. As the narrative unfolds, elements of suspense and myth intertwine with personal conflict, hinting at the epic battles and personal sacrifices that are expected to form the crux of the story. The engaged dialogue among characters further indicates a rich narrative ahead, involving themes of love, loyalty, and destiny against the backdrop of cultural history.
Maurice Maeterlinck
Joyzelle
"Joyzelle" by Maurice Maeterlinck is a play written in the early 20th century. It tells the story of complex relationships, love, and the interplay between destiny and individual choice. The central characters include Merlin, a powerful and wise figure; his son Lancéor, who is torn between love and duty; and Joyzelle, a woman caught in the throes of fate and her own desires. The opening of "Joyzelle" introduces a mystical setting where Merlin converses with Arielle, a being representing Merlin's inner genius. They discuss the fate of Lancéor, who is approaching Joyzelle, and the importance of love in shaping one's destiny. As this mystical discourse progresses, we learn that Lancéor's happiness is intertwined with Joyzelle, who is expected to overcome significant trials of love. Their impending meeting is laden with tension as the audience senses the trials and tribulations the characters will face, foreshadowing a blend of romantic drama and existential inquiry that characterizes Maeterlinck's work.
Queen Marguerite
Deux farces inédites attribuées à la reine Marguerite de Navarre
"Deux farces inédites attribuées à la reine Marguerite de Navarre" by Marguerite is a collection of theatrical comedies written in the early 16th century. The book features two plays, "La Fille abhorrant mariage" and "La Vierge repentie," which explore themes of love, marriage, and religious devotion. It likely draws on the cultural and social context of the French court during the Renaissance, reflecting the artistic endeavors of Princess Marguerite, the sister of Francis I. The content of the book revolves around the interactions and inner conflicts of two main characters, Clément and Catherine. In "La Fille abhorrant mariage," the dialogue reveals Catherine's strong desire for virginity and a life dedicated to God, despite Clément's attempts to persuade her toward love and marriage. The second play, "La Vierge repentie," continues this exploration, depicting Catherine's struggle as she reflects on her commitment to remain a nun, fighting against societal and familial pressures that seek to pull her into a conventional married life. Through witty dialogue and moral contemplation, the plays balance humor with deeper philosophical questions about personal choice and adherence to societal expectations, characteristic of Marguerite's literary style.
Maurice Maeterlinck
L'oiseau bleu: Féerie en six actes et douze tableaux
"L'oiseau bleu: Féerie en six actes et douze tableaux" by Maurice Maeterlinck is a theatrical play written in 1908. Two poor woodcutter's children, Tyltyl and Mytyl, are sent by a fairy to find the Blue Bird to cure her sick daughter. Guided by Light, they encounter their dead grandparents, their unborn brother, and various other characters. But dangerous enemies, including a treacherous cat and the Night herself, stand in their way, threatening the children's quest for happiness.
Maurice Maeterlinck
Les fiançailles: Féerie en cinq actes et onze tableaux
"Les fiançailles: Féerie en cinq actes et onze tableaux" by Maurice Maeterlinck is a theatrical play written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the central character, Tyltyl, who is guided by a fairy named Berylune as he embarks on a magical journey to navigate the complexities of love and choice among various young women he encounters. As Tyltyl grapples with the idea of true love, the narrative explores themes of fate, desire, and the nature of human relationships. At the start of the play, Tyltyl is introduced in his humble home, where he is visited by the Fairy. She appears familiar yet mystical, prompting Tyltyl to recall their previous encounters. The Fairy informs Tyltyl that it is time for him to choose a bride, a decision she insists carries significant weight and affects not only his future but generations to come. As the narrative unfolds, Tyltyl finds himself amidst an enchanting gathering of young women, each displaying their unique charms and qualities, prompting a deeper exploration of his feelings for them. The scene establishes a whimsical yet serious tone, setting the stage for Tyltyl's eventual journey toward understanding the true essence of love amidst the distractions of youth and desire.
Maurice Maeterlinck
Pélléas and Mélisande; Alladine and Palomides; Home
"Pélléas and Mélisande; Alladine and Palomides; Home" by Maurice Maeterlinck is a play that belongs to the late 19th century, known for its symbolist themes and poetic dialogue. This work intricately weaves the stories of love, fate, and the mysteries of human emotions through the characters of Pélléas, Mélisande, Golaud, and the royal family of Allemonde. The narrative is imbued with a sense of the ethereal and the unknown, promising an exploration of profound themes surrounding relationships and existential angst. At the start of "Pélléas and Mélisande," the stage is set with a vibrant atmosphere filled with anticipation as various characters interact around the castle gates and in the nearby forest. We are introduced to Golaud, who finds Mélisande weeping at a spring, prompting an intriguing yet mysterious relationship to unfold between them. As Golaud brings Mélisande back to the castle, we learn about her delicate nature and enigmatic past. Meanwhile, Pélléas, Golaud's brother, becomes entwined in the evolving familial dynamics as secret feelings and emotional tensions begin to surface. The opening acts suggest a blend of innocent yet complex interactions that foreshadow a tragic entanglement of love and heartache, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
Max Du Veuzit
Paternité
"Paternité" by Max Du Veuzit is a one-act play written in the early 20th century. The work examines the themes of familial relationships and parental responsibilities, particularly focusing on the bond between a father and his daughter. Through the characters’ interactions, the play explores the emotional struggles that arise from societal and legal definitions of parenthood. In the play, Lucienne Villers, a 16-year-old girl, finds herself caught in a conflict between her biological father, Maurice Villers, and her stepfather, Paul Romagny, who has raised her since childhood after her mother’s divorce. Following her mother’s death, Maurice reclaims his paternal rights, seeking to bring Lucienne into his life despite having been absent for many years. Lucienne is torn, feeling an emotional bond with Romagny, whom she regards as her true father. The narrative delves into the powerful themes of love, loss, and the complexities of familial ties, culminating in an emotional decision where Lucienne must choose between the two men, highlighting that love and connection may sometimes transcend legal and biological definitions.
Max Du Veuzit
Le Noël des Petits Gueux
"Le Noël des Petits Gueux" by Max Du Veuzit is a one-act realist play written in the early 20th century. The storyline unfolds during a bleak Christmas Eve, centering around themes of poverty and familial struggles. It examines the grim realities faced by a family suffering from the father's alcoholism, highlighting the impact of this on the children's lives. The play introduces three main characters: an alcoholic father, an adolescent daughter named Maria, and her younger brother, Charlot. As the scene opens, the father is found inebriated and oblivious to his children's plight. Maria and Charlot, struggling with hunger and the harshness of their living conditions, are depicted as they confront the disappointment of not having enough to eat for their holiday meal. Although they find some alcohol left by their father, it serves as a temporary escape from their misery. The story reflects their longing for better times and the innocence of childhood against the backdrop of their harsh reality, ultimately painting a poignant picture of resilience amidst adversity.
Molière
Ο Αρχοντοχωριάτης
"Ο Αρχοντοχωριάτης" by Molière is a five-act comedy-ballet written in 1670. The work satirizes social climbing through the story of Monsieur Jourdain, a wealthy middle-aged bourgeois who desperately wants to be accepted as an aristocrat. He hires teachers in fencing, dance, music, and philosophy, constantly making a fool of himself while pursuing his grandiose dreams. When his daughter falls in love with a middle-class man, Jourdain refuses the match, hoping instead for nobility. A clever disguise scheme ultimately teaches him the consequences of his megalomania.
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