Subject
French drama (Tragedy) -- 17th century Books
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Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 01
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 01" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of dramatic works and poetry written in the 17th century. This first volume showcases Corneille's approach to both the theatrical elements of his time and his language, often reflecting on the accuracy of text from previous editions. It serves as a comprehensive compilation and revision of his classic works, highlighting his legacy in French literature and drama. At the start of this collection, the editor Ch. Marty-Laveaux emphasizes the importance of accuracy in presenting Corneille's texts, addressing the various alterations made by previous editors to the author's original works. The introduction includes details about Corneille's contributions to literature, as well as the historical context surrounding his writing. The opening portion discusses the significant changes to the language and style of the dramatic works over time, with the aim of giving readers a faithful representation of Corneille's genius as it was intended in the original prints. The notice also points out that this edition includes unpublished pieces, annotations, and variants that enrich the understanding of Corneille's writing and its evolution.
Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 04
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 04" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of dramatic works written in the 17th century. This volume primarily includes the tragedy "Pompée," which explores themes of power, loyalty, and ambition against the backdrop of ancient Rome. The central figures involve the conflicted characters of Pompée, Cléopâtre, and various agents of political intrigue, demonstrating the complexity of human emotions intertwined with grand historical narratives. The opening of "Pompée" sets the stage with a tense political discussion among the characters Ptolomée, Photin, and Achillas regarding the fate of the defeated general Pompée, who seeks refuge in Egypt after being overthrown. The dialogue reveals Ptolomée's inner turmoil as he weighs the decision to either protect Pompée or betray him to the rising power of Julius Caesar. As the arguments unfold, the themes of moral obligation versus self-preservation emerge, foreshadowing the intertwined destinies of Rome and Egypt as well as the tragic consequences of political decisions. The characters' motivations and the socio-political climate create a gripping introduction that draws readers into the complexities of loyalty and power dynamics in Corneille's work.
Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 02
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 02" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of plays written in the early 17th century. This volume includes Corneille's works, such as "La Galerie du Palais", which are significant contributions to French theatre and drama. The text explores themes of love, societal expectations, and the intricate dynamics between characters, particularly in romantic entanglements. The opening of "La Galerie du Palais" introduces us to several characters, primarily focusing on Célidée and Lysandre, who are entangled in a love affair that is complicated by misunderstandings and rival affections. Célidée grapples with her feelings while maintaining a façade of indifference, whereas Lysandre is deeply affected by her coldness. The play also includes the interactions between their confidants, such as Florice and Aronte, who influence the romantic developments. With witty dialogues and a lively setting depicting Parisian society, the beginning sets the stage for a comedic exploration of love and the games people play.
Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 05
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 05" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of dramatic works written in the mid-17th century. This volume particularly features the tragedy "Théodore, vierge et martyre," which explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and the struggle against societal norms. The central character, Théodore, is a Christian virgin facing the perils of persecution and moral dilemmas in a tumultuous political and social environment. The opening of this tragedy sets the stage for intense character interactions and dramatic conflicts. We are introduced to Placide, the son of the governor Valens, who struggles with his affections for Théodore, despite his commitments and the pressure from his family to marry another. Marcelle, Placide's mother, exhibits a fierce determination to eliminate Théodore, viewing her as an obstacle to her ambitions for her daughter Flavie. The narrative explores the tension between personal desires and societal expectations, with Théodore's unwavering faith and purity clashing against the corrupt and politically motivated actions of those around her. As the characters navigate their complex relationships, the audience is drawn into a tale of love, jealousy, and the quest for redemption amidst impending doom.
Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 03
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 03" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of dramatic works written in the early 17th century. This volume features some of Corneille's renowned plays, including his famous tragedy "Le Cid." The text explores themes of honor, love, and the complexity of human relationships, presenting characters such as Rodrigue and Chimène, whose passionate and tumultuous interactions serve as a central focus. The opening of this volume provides insight into the background and significance of "Le Cid," recounting its creation and the impact it had upon its release. The narrative begins with a commentary on the influence of M. de Chalon, who encouraged Corneille to explore Spanish subjects for dramatization. It details Corneille's initial studies and inspirations taken from Spanish literature, leading to the crafting of a masterpiece that garnered widespread acclaim and sparked debate about its adherence to the rules of drama. The piece gained immense popularity at the court and in Paris, despite facing criticism from contemporaries, highlighting both its dramatic merits and the controversies surrounding its stylistic choices.
Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 07
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 07" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of plays written during the 17th century. This volume includes the tragedy "Agésilas," which explores themes of love, ambition, and political intrigue set against the backdrop of ancient Sparta. The audience follows the titular character, Agésilas, as he navigates complex relationships and power dynamics, particularly involving other prominent figures like Lysander and various royal suitors. The opening of the tragedy introduces the characters Elpinice and Aglatide, daughters of Lysander, as they discuss their impending marriages to kings. The dialogue highlights Aglatide's ambition for a royal match, contrasting with Elpinice’s more pragmatic views on love and duty. The characters express their feelings and expectations regarding their suitors, Cotys and Spitridate, revealing underlying tensions and desires as political motives intertwine with personal affections. This sets the stage for the unfolding drama, as both love and duty will play crucial roles in the decisions that the characters will face.
Pierre Corneille
Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 06
"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 06" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of dramatic works written during the 17th century. This volume specifically presents the tragedy "Pertharite, Roi des Lombards," which deals with themes of power, betrayal, and familial conflict. The play centers around the character of Pertharite, the titular king, whose struggles against the tyranny of his brother Gundebert and an adversarial nobleman, Grimoald, create a rich backdrop for examining loyalty and ambition. The opening of "Pertharite, Roi des Lombards" sets the stage for a world where political intrigues and personal vendettas collide. It begins with a discourse between Rodelinde, the wife of Pertharite, and Unulphe, as they discuss the fallout from Pertharite's defeat and his subsequent exile. Rodelinde's fierce determination to uphold the honor of her husband contrasts with the political machinations of those around her, including Grimoald's ambitions and her own conflicted emotions about power and loyalty. As she navigates her grief and anger, the complex relationships between the characters hint at the larger themes of vengeance, love, and the consequences of ambition that will unfold throughout the play.
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