Subject
Italy -- Drama Books
Best books
Bernard Shaw
The Man of Destiny
"The Man of Destiny" by Bernard Shaw is a play written in 1897, set during Napoleon's early Italian campaign. After victory at the Battle of Lodi, Napoleon discovers crucial military dispatches have been stolen. When a mysterious woman appears claiming her brother took them, a battle of wits ensues. She eventually returns the documents but warns Napoleon against reading one particular letter—a revelation that could trigger scandal and duels. As tensions mount, the truth about the woman's identity and Napoleon's marriage hangs in the balance.
Bernard Shaw
Der Mann des Schicksals: Komödie in einem Akt
"Der Mann des Schicksals: Komödie in einem Akt" by Bernard Shaw is a play written in 1897. Set in Italy during Napoleon's early career, it unfolds at an inn after his victory at Lodi. When military dispatches are stolen, a mysterious woman appears claiming her brother took them. What follows is a battle of wits between Napoleon and this stranger, who may not be who she claims. The play explores themes of deception, national character, and the cost of reputation.
Vernon Lee
Ariadne in Mantua: A Romance in Five Acts
"Ariadne in Mantua: A Romance in Five Acts" by Vernon Lee is a dramatic work written in the early 20th century, showcasing elements of romance intertwined with themes of identity and societal constraints. Set against the backdrop of the historical city of Mantua, the play focuses on the profound complexities of human emotions and the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations amidst a richly atmospheric setting. The narrative revolves around Diego, a young singer who is actually a woman in disguise, Magdalen, and her role in reviving the melancholic Duke Ferdinand of Mantua. As she navigates through the court's intrigues, her music acts as both a balm for the Duke and a subtle vector for her feelings. The central plot pivots on her hidden identity and the emotional stakes tied to her past with the Duke during his captivity. As the story unfolds, themes of love, sacrifice, and the dichotomy between impulsive desire and the restraint of duty culminate in a tragic climax, leading Diego/ Magdalen to a dramatic act of self-sacrifice which profoundly affects the Duke and those around him, illustrating the profound loneliness and anguish that shape their relationships.
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