Subject
Italian drama -- 19th century Books
Best books
Felice Cavallotti
Alcibiade : $b scene Greche in dieci quadri
"Alcibiade: scene Greche in dieci quadri" by Felice Cavallotti is a dramatic work written in the late 19th century. The book is likely a historical drama, drawing upon the life and times of the Athenian figure Alcibiades, set against the backdrop of classical Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The main character is clearly Alcibiades himself, accompanied by major historical figures such as Socrates and Aspasia, with a focus on Athenian society, politics, and culture. The work explores the intricacies of Greek life, interweaving personal, political, and philosophical themes. The opening of the book unfolds as an extensive and personal preface by Cavallotti, describing not just the origins of the play but also the challenges he faced bringing it to completion and the stage. The account mixes autobiographical detail—including his evasion of censure and arrest in Italy, the process of writing in rural retreat, and the setbacks and eventual success in theatrical productions—with strong reflections on art, realism, and the purpose of reviving classical subjects. This is followed by an exploration of the role of women (etérae or courtesans) and the social structure of Athens, providing historical and cultural context intended as both scholarly background and dramatic groundwork for the play. Thus, the beginning paints the picture of a drama deeply rooted in classical history and literary study, candidly introduced through the author’s own experiences and insights.
Felice Cavallotti
La sposa di Mènecle: Comedia in un prologo e tre atti, con note
"La sposa di Mènecle: Comedia in un prologo e tre atti, con note" by Felice Cavallotti is a theatrical comedy likely written in the late 19th century. The work intertwines a legal drama inspired by themes from ancient Greek law and customs, focusing on the central character Mènecle and the tensions surrounding his estate and family claims. This comedy aims to highlight societal norms and the complexities of human relationships in a humorous manner. The opening of the play sets the stage for a courtroom drama in ancient Athens, where the proceedings revolve around the contested inheritance of Mènecle. It introduces key characters such as the prosecutor Beoto and the accused Eudemonippo, a comic playwright facing charges for illicitly portraying citizens in his comedy. The narrative captures the tension between adherence to societal laws and the creative liberties of playwrights, with elements of satire and reflection on contemporary values. As arguments unfold, the characters’ personalities and motivations emerge, setting the tone for a lively exploration of both legal and human intricacies in a comedic format.
Valentino Carrera
La quaderna di Nanni Le Commedie, vol. 1
"La quaderna di Nanni" by Valentino Carrera is a three-act comedy written in the late 19th century. The play is set in Florence and revolves around the struggles of the main character, Nanni, a cobbler, as he navigates family life while being consumed by an obsession with gambling on the lottery. The narrative touches on themes of poverty, ambition, and the consequences of one's choices, particularly the impact of gambling on familial relationships. The opening of "La quaderna di Nanni" introduces the audience to the challenging living conditions of Nanni's family, showcasing a dialogue between Nanni, his wife Maria, and their children, Oreste and Fiorenza. The family grapples with financial hardships, with Nanni often succumbing to the temptations of playing the lottery. The interactions reveal the tensions within the family as Nanni's fixation with gambling causes friction with Maria and concerns for the future of their children. The dynamics between the characters set the stage for the unfolding drama and comedy, highlighting the contrasting aspirations and realities faced by each family member.
Giuseppe Giacosa
Una partita a scacchi; Il Trionfo d'amore; Intermezzi e scene
"Una partita a scacchi; Il Trionfo d'amore; Intermezzi e scene" by Giuseppe Giacosa is a dramatic work consisting of various legends and interludes written in the late 19th century. This piece includes two acts of a legendary drama, exploring themes of love and destiny through the lens of chivalric ideals. The story is interwoven with elements of romance, intrigue, and the complexities of human emotions, particularly as they play out in medieval settings. The beginning of "Una partita a scacchi" introduces us to the characters Renato and Iolanda during a stormy evening in their castle in the Aosta Valley. As they discuss the harshness of their surroundings, Renato expresses his concerns about Iolanda's solitary fate and the absence of a suitor in her life. Iolanda, strong-willed and independent, reveals her secret longing for love while skillfully engaging in a chess game against Renato, symbolizing the strategic and often unforgiving nature of relationships. The tension of the impending chess match takes center stage when a wager is placed: if Fernando, a youthful page, wins, he may wed Iolanda; if he loses, the stakes are grave. The opening sets a tone of suspense as it hints at the intertwining fates of love, ambition, and sacrifice.
Valentino Carrera
Capitale e mano d'opera Le Commedie, vol. 1
"Capitale e mano d'opera" by Valentino Carrera is a theatrical comedy written in the late 19th century. The play explores the dramatic and contemporary struggle between intellectual capital and the working class, intending to foster a necessary harmony among all interests without inciting hatred or violence. The central character, Carlo Valori, confronts the challenges of running a factory amidst the complexities of economics and labor relations, reflecting a broader conversation about social responsibility and the importance of uplifting the working class. The opening of the play introduces the domestic setting of Carlo Valori’s household in Florence, establishing a tense atmosphere concerning financial obligations and personal relationships. Various characters, including Carlo's wife Agnese and his mother Anna, engage in conversations that hint at underlying tensions related to Carlo's ambitions in the industrial world. As Carlo navigates discussions around capital and labor, themes of societal expectations, financial struggles, and familial pressures come to the forefront, setting the stage for the central conflicts that will unfold throughout the story. This initial act depicts not just domestic life, but the socio-economic realities of Italy during this period, blending personal drama with broader societal critiques.
Valentino Carrera
Dedica - Scarabocchio Le Commedie, vol. 1
"Dedica - Scarabocchio" by Valentino Carrera is a theatrical work written in the late 19th century. This piece likely focuses on the intersection of personal struggles and societal perceptions through the lens of its main character, Gaspare, who has been ridiculed for his disability, dubbed "Scarabocchio." The narrative explores themes of identity, compassion, and the power of friendship, suggesting a commentary on how society treats those who are different. The opening of "Dedica - Scarabocchio" sets the stage in a village where Gaspare, a disabled man, reflects on his past while being mocked by children in the square. Caterina, a compassionate character, tends to her flowers, expressing concern for Gaspare's well-being. The interaction between Caterina and Bernardetto reveals the dynamics of their relationship and their feelings for Gaspare, whose talent and potential remain obscured by his physical limitations. As Gaspare arrives, the scene fills with humor and warmth, highlighting his determination to define his own identity, ultimately setting up a narrative that promises both comedic and heartfelt moments in his journey toward self-acceptance.
Valentino Carrera
Un avvocato dell'avvenire Le Commedie, vol. 1
"Un avvocato dell'avvenire" by Valentino Carrera is a comedic play written in the late 19th century. The work satirically explores the Italian legal profession through the character of Tullio Savelli, an ambitious young man who aspires to be a lawyer despite his apparent shortcomings and lack of genuine dedication to the law. The play is set against a backdrop of societal mockery and serves as a reflection on the legal system and the nature of ambition in a rapidly changing society. The opening of the play introduces the main character, Tullio, and presents the contrast between his grand aspirations and his superficial understanding of the legal profession. Tullio arrives in the city, filled with pretentiousness and misguided confidence, yet he acknowledges his lack of genuine academic effort. The comical setting reveals Tullio's interactions with various characters, including his uncle Giuseppe and other aspiring lawyers, who represent different facets of the legal realm. Amidst the humor, Carrera critically examines societal values, ambition, and the ease with which one can navigate the legal landscape, setting the stage for Tullio's subsequent adventures and misadventures in court and in love.
Marco Praga
Alleluja: dramma in tre atti
"Alleluja: dramma in tre atti" by Marco Praga is a drama written in the late 19th century. The play is set in a provincial city in Lombardy and revolves around the life of Alessandro Fara, his wife Elisa, and their daughter Eva, exploring themes of family, honor, and emotional turmoil. The narrative seems to focus on the complex relationships within the family, particularly dealing with past grievances and societal expectations. The opening of the drama introduces us to a festive gathering celebrating Alessandro and Elisa's silver wedding anniversary. Surrounded by friends and acquaintances, Alessandro appears jovial and lighthearted, but his internal struggles are hinted at as he reminisces about the weight of his past. Various characters engage in lively exchanges, reflecting both humor and tension within the group. As the atmosphere shifts, the stark contrasts in the characters' backgrounds and emotional depths become apparent, hinting at deeper conflicts yet to unfold. The scene sets a foundation for the exploration of secrets, regrets, and familial bonds that will develop throughout the play.
Valentino Carrera
Gli ultimi giorni di Goldoni Le Commedie, vol. 1
"Gli ultimi giorni di Goldoni" by Valentino Carrera is a play written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the last days of the famous Italian playwright Carlo Goldoni, exploring his life and relationships against the backdrop of a tumultuous political landscape in France during the Revolution. The main characters include Goldoni himself, his devoted wife Nicoletta, and other notable literary figures who gather to honor the playwright. The opening of the play sets the stage in Goldoni's home in Paris, where we find the playwright and his companions preparing for a celebration in honor of his wedding anniversary. The scene is filled with a mix of humor and tension as Goldoni, battling both personal and political challenges, interacts with his friends and family. Conversations touch on themes of loyalty, love, and the social upheaval surrounding them, while foreshadowing the party meant to lift their spirits in light of their struggles. As the characters discuss plans for the day, the audience is introduced to the vibrant personalities surrounding Goldoni, creating a lively atmosphere that hints at both joyous celebration and underlying fears about the future.
Edoardo Calandra
Ad oltranza : $b commedia in 4 atti
"Ad Oltranza: Commedia in 4 Atti" by Edoardo Calandra is a theatrical drama written in the late 19th century. The play revolves around a group of characters intertwined in a web of social interactions, emotions, and relationships, set primarily in a villa and various domestic settings. It highlights themes of love, jealousy, and societal expectations, showcasing the interactions between characters like Claudio Serra, Ida Galliari, and Piero Laneri. The opening of the play introduces us to a gathering at the Galliari villa, where anticipation is in the air as guests wait for the return of the baron and his wife from a hunting trip. Characters Chiara, Ignazio, Trota, and others engage in conversations filled with banter and hints of underlying tensions and hidden affections. As the scenes unfold, the arrival of Ida Galliari brings a shift in dynamics, revealing layers of past relationships and unspoken sentiments. The interactions set the stage for unfolding drama, hinting at complexities in love, loyalty, and the consequences of societal norms that will likely shape the narrative as it progresses.
Felice Cavallotti
Lea: dramma in tre atti in prosa con un prologo in versi
"Lea: dramma in tre atti in prosa con un prologo in versi" by Felice Cavallotti is a dramatic play written in the late 19th century. The work delves into themes of love, societal norms, and familial obligations, centering around the character Lea and her relationships. The prologue sets an engaging tone with characters discussing the impending premiere of a play and the opinions surrounding its quality, suggesting a meta-theatrical element that reflects on both the theatrical world and personal conflicts. The opening portion introduces a mix of characters in a lively café setting in Milan, where Fulvio, a poet, interacts with Bardi, a comic actor, and other patrons involved in the theater scene. They discuss an upcoming performance of the play "Lea," foreshadowing issues surrounding its reception. Through witty exchanges, the dialogue reveals the personal and artistic dilemmas faced by the characters, while hints of Lea's narrative begin to unfold, interspersed with humor and reflections on the nature of art and performance. As the scene transitions, we encounter the characters in their daily lives, setting the stage for the emotional and societal challenges to come in Lea's journey.
Gerolamo Rovetta
La realtà: dramma in 3 atti
"La realtà: dramma in 3 atti" by Gerolamo Rovetta is a dramatic work written in the late 19th century. This play revolves around the life of Francesco Quarnarolo, an enthusiastic and committed socialist leader striving for the rights and recognition of workers in an increasingly volatile social climate. The story unfolds within the backdrop of industrial and labor struggles, highlighting the complexities of love, loyalty, and social justice. At the start of the play, Francesco stands on the balcony addressing a cheering crowd, celebrating his election as the president of labor associations. Surrounded by his close companions, he exudes confidence and joy over their shared accomplishments, while also reminiscing about the struggles they've faced. The opening introduces key characters, including his daughter Sofia, who admires him, and Anna Santer, his romantic interest, who adds emotional tension to his life. The atmosphere is charged with fervent revolutionary spirit, and there are hints of impending challenges, as Francesco must navigate both personal relationships and the harsh realities of his political ambitions.
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