Subject
Swedish drama Books
Best books
Victoria Benedictsson
Den bergtagna: En kärlekens tragedi
"Den bergtagna: En kärlekens tragedi" by Victoria Benedictsson and Axel Lundegård is a drama published in 1890. The work tells the story of Louise Strandberg, a woman who falls under the spell of Gustave Alland, a charismatic sculptor who champions "free love." As their relationship unfolds across Paris and a Swedish small town, Louise finds herself increasingly entrapped by his ideology and influence. The drama explores themes of manipulation, female vulnerability, and tragic passion, culminating in devastating consequences.
Karl August Tavaststjerna
Judith och Holofernes : $b Historiskt skådespel i 4 akter och 8 tablåer
"Judith och Holofernes: Historiskt skådespel i 4 akter och 8 tablåer" by August Tavaststjerna is a historical drama likely written in the late 19th century. The play explores the biblical story of Judith, a Jewish widow, and her encounter with Holofernes, the Assyrian general. Central to the narrative is Judith's cunning and bravery as she attempts to save her city from impending doom, making her a key figure in this tale of resilience and empowerment. The opening of the play sets an intense and dramatic tone, taking place in Holofernes' camp, where he is preparing to sacrifice Ahalibama, a young beauty captured from the Ammonites. Amidst the fervor of warriors worshipping Nebucadnezar’s idol, Holofernes reveals his disdain for the gods and his desire for power. As he becomes infatuated with Ahalibama, he grants her freedom from her sacrifice, illuminated by his own twisted notions of love and conquest. The scenes shift from the preparation of war and bloodshed to Judith's emerging role as a protagonist, revealing her determination to save her people. This establishes a gripping backdrop for the unfolding drama that promises themes of courage, love, betrayal, and divine intervention.
Fredrik August Dahlgren
Wermlänningarne Sorglustigt tal- sång- och dansspel i två afdelningar och sex indelningar
"Wermlänningarne" by Fredrik August Dahlgren is a folk musical play written in 1845 and premiered in 1846. Erik, a wealthy man's son, must marry a haughty woman despite loving Anna, a crofter's daughter. Their fate takes a dramatic turn after a near-drowning incident. Set against a backdrop of Swedish folk traditions, the play blends romance, comedy, and music, featuring the beloved song "Ack Värmeland, du sköna" and the humorous character Löpar-Nisse, whose antics enliven the festive conclusion.
Fredrik Cygnaeus
Claes Flemings tider: Dramatisk dikt i fem akter
"Claes Flemings tider: Dramatisk dikt i fem akter" by Fredrik Cygnaeus is a dramatic poem written in the mid-19th century. The work explores historical and political themes through its characters, particularly focusing on Claes Fleming, his interactions with family members, and the tension surrounding the character's actions and their repercussions on Finnish society. It appears to be set during the turbulent times of the late 16th century in Finland, with potential issues of loyalty, familial bonds, and justice at its core. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to various characters, including Bengt Bonde and Daniel Hjort, who express their weariness and concern for their homeland engulfed in conflict. They discuss the devastation caused by Claes Fleming's rule and the resultant suffering inflicted upon the common people. This opening establishes a somber atmosphere, as Bonde is tormented by dreams of violence and loss while longing for peace, indicating the higher stakes involving their land and families. The scene is set against the backdrop of pending conflict, with an ominous sense of dread for what is to come—setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
Johan Ludvig Runeberg
Friaren från landet: Lustspel
"Friaren från landet: Lustspel" by Johan Ludvig Runeberg is a comedic play written in the early 19th century. Set against a backdrop of societal norms and expectations, the work explores the humorous dynamics of love, marriage, and the clash between rural and urban lifestyles. The narrative revolves around an uncle who intends to move to his country estate, much to the confusion and dismay of his niece, Emelie, who is caught in the emotional turmoil of an impending arranged marriage. The play unfolds as the uncle, disillusioned with urban life, decides to move to the countryside, believing that happiness and peace await him there. Emelie, who is reluctantly engaged to a much older landowner, grapples with her feelings for August, a young student who offers her a glimpse of true love. The comedic tension arises from misunderstandings, subterfuge, and the contrast between the characters' social aspirations and their actual desires. As Emelie and her maid Katrine conspire to navigate their predicament, the play humorously explores themes of identity, social class, and the search for genuine connection, culminating in a resolution that highlights the absurdities of societal expectations.
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