The Revenge A Tragedy By: Edward Young (1683-1765)
Edward Young's The Revenge: A Tragedy is a powerful and emotionally charged play that delves deep into the themes of revenge, love, and morality. Set in 18th-century Venice, the story follows the protagonist Zanga, a former African slave seeking justice for the murder of his father. From the very beginning, Young captivates the reader with his vivid and poetic language, creating a haunting atmosphere that intensifies as the plot progresses. The play's exploration of revenge is masterful, as Young highlights the destructive nature of this all-consuming emotion. Zanga's desire for vengeance is palpable, driving him to manipulate those around him and orchestrate a series of tragic events. The characters in The Revenge are complex and multi-dimensional, adding depth to the story. Zanga, in particular, is a fascinating character study. Young portrays him as a morally ambiguous figure, neither wholly good nor evil. This ambiguity makes him relatable and forces readers to confront their own views on justice and the consequences of seeking revenge. The depiction of love in The Revenge is equally captivating. Young explores both the depths of romantic love and the complexities of filial love. The romantic relationship between Alonzo and Leonora is beautifully portrayed, evoking a sense of longing and tragedy. Likewise, the filial love between Zanga and his father is a driving force behind his quest for revenge, adding an emotional depth to the play. What stands out in Young's writing is his ability to tackle heavy philosophical questions. The Revenge delves into the nature of justice, morality, and the human condition. Through the tragic events that unfold, Young prompts readers to question the consequences of their actions and the price they are willing to pay for revenge. Although The Revenge was written in the 18th century, the themes explored in the play remain poignant and relevant today. Young's poetic language, complex characters, and thought-provoking narrative make this tragedy a compelling read. However, it is not without its flaws. The pacing can be slow at times, and some readers may find it difficult to connect with the characters due to their outdated speech patterns. Overall, The Revenge: A Tragedy is a captivating and thought-provoking play that leaves a lasting impact. Edward Young's masterful storytelling and exploration of complex themes make it an essential read for those who enjoy tragedy and reflection on the consequences of revenge. First Page: [Illustration] THE REVENGE. A Tragedy , IN FIVE ACTS, BY DR. YOUNG. CORRECTLY GIVEN, AS PERFORMED AT THE THEATRES ROYAL. With Remarks. [Illustration] London : Printed by D. S. Maurice, Fenchurch street; SOLD BY T. HUGHES, 35, LUDGATE STREET, AND J. BYSH, 52, PATERNOSTER ROW. REMARKS. This tragedy is the dramatic master piece of it's valuable author, but at first was not so successful as Busiris and his other plays. Though similar, in some degree, to the story of Shakspeare's Othello , the motives for resentment in Zanga are of a more noble and consistent nature, and the credulous object of his deadly hatred more excusable and more pitied in yielding to it's subtlety. There is great scope for talent in the character of Zanga; but the whining nonsense of Alonzo and Carlos would tire in any hands. We have inserted, on page 59, a narrative said to have really happened in Spain a few years before this piece was written; it is so nearly followed by Dr. Young in his admirable Revenge , as to leave no doubt of having formed it's ground work. DRAMATIS PERSONÆ. Covent Garden, 1814. Don Alonzo Mr. Conway. Don Carlos Mr. Hamerton. Don Alvarez Mr. Murray. Don Manuel Mr. Creswell. Zanga Mr... Continue reading book >>

The Revenge A Tragedy By: Edward Young (1683-1765)

Edward Young's The Revenge: A Tragedy is a powerful and emotionally charged play that delves deep into the themes of revenge, love, and morality. Set in 18th-century Venice, the story follows the protagonist Zanga, a former African slave seeking justice for the murder of his father.

From the very beginning, Young captivates the reader with his vivid and poetic language, creating a haunting atmosphere that intensifies as the plot progresses. The play's exploration of revenge is masterful, as Young highlights the destructive nature of this all-consuming emotion. Zanga's desire for vengeance is palpable, driving him to manipulate those around him and orchestrate a series of tragic events.

The characters in The Revenge are complex and multi-dimensional, adding depth to the story. Zanga, in particular, is a fascinating character study. Young portrays him as a morally ambiguous figure, neither wholly good nor evil. This ambiguity makes him relatable and forces readers to confront their own views on justice and the consequences of seeking revenge.

The depiction of love in The Revenge is equally captivating. Young explores both the depths of romantic love and the complexities of filial love. The romantic relationship between Alonzo and Leonora is beautifully portrayed, evoking a sense of longing and tragedy. Likewise, the filial love between Zanga and his father is a driving force behind his quest for revenge, adding an emotional depth to the play.

What stands out in Young's writing is his ability to tackle heavy philosophical questions. The Revenge delves into the nature of justice, morality, and the human condition. Through the tragic events that unfold, Young prompts readers to question the consequences of their actions and the price they are willing to pay for revenge.

Although The Revenge was written in the 18th century, the themes explored in the play remain poignant and relevant today. Young's poetic language, complex characters, and thought-provoking narrative make this tragedy a compelling read. However, it is not without its flaws. The pacing can be slow at times, and some readers may find it difficult to connect with the characters due to their outdated speech patterns.

Overall, The Revenge: A Tragedy is a captivating and thought-provoking play that leaves a lasting impact. Edward Young's masterful storytelling and exploration of complex themes make it an essential read for those who enjoy tragedy and reflection on the consequences of revenge.

First Page:

[Illustration]

THE REVENGE.

A Tragedy , IN FIVE ACTS,

BY DR. YOUNG.

CORRECTLY GIVEN, AS PERFORMED AT THE THEATRES ROYAL.

With Remarks.

[Illustration]

London : Printed by D. S. Maurice, Fenchurch street;

SOLD BY T. HUGHES, 35, LUDGATE STREET, AND J. BYSH, 52, PATERNOSTER ROW.

REMARKS.

This tragedy is the dramatic master piece of it's valuable author, but at first was not so successful as Busiris and his other plays. Though similar, in some degree, to the story of Shakspeare's Othello , the motives for resentment in Zanga are of a more noble and consistent nature, and the credulous object of his deadly hatred more excusable and more pitied in yielding to it's subtlety.

There is great scope for talent in the character of Zanga; but the whining nonsense of Alonzo and Carlos would tire in any hands.

We have inserted, on page 59, a narrative said to have really happened in Spain a few years before this piece was written; it is so nearly followed by Dr. Young in his admirable Revenge , as to leave no doubt of having formed it's ground work.

DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.

Covent Garden, 1814. Don Alonzo Mr. Conway. Don Carlos Mr. Hamerton. Don Alvarez Mr. Murray. Don Manuel Mr. Creswell. Zanga Mr... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Play

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