Venice Preserved A Tragedy By: Thomas Otway (1652-1685)
Venice Preserved A Tragedy by Thomas Otway is a captivating and emotionally intense play set in 17th-century Venice. This tragic tale immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, love, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice. The plot revolves around the ill-fated characters of Jaffeir and Belvidera, two lovers who find themselves caught in the midst of a conspiracy against the Venetian government. Jaffeir, torn between his loyalty to his friend Pierre and his love for Belvidera, faces an impossible decision as he must choose between his duty and his heart. Otway skillfully portrays the complexities of human nature through his well-developed characters. Jaffeir's internal conflict is palpable, and the reader is able to empathize with his anguish and turmoil. Belvidera, too, is a multifaceted character who experiences profound despair and heartache. The depth of their emotions is vividly captured in the poetic and evocative language of the play. The play also delves into themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The political backdrop of Venice provides a rich context for exploring these themes, as the city's ruling class grapples with the destructive forces at play. The pacing of the play is exceptional, with moments of heightened tension and dramatic intensity. Otway expertly builds suspense throughout the plot, leading to a climactic and devastating conclusion. The tragedy of Venice Preserved leaves a lasting impact on the reader, reminding us of the destructive power of human frailty and the sacrifices made in the name of love and loyalty. One aspect that may be challenging for some readers is the play's dense and poetic language. Otway crafts his dialogue with rich imagery and complex metaphors, which may require careful attention to fully appreciate. However, the effort is well worth it, as these poetic flourishes contribute to the play's atmospheric and deeply affecting nature. Overall, Venice Preserved A Tragedy is a remarkable work of drama that explores the depths of human nature and the consequences of our actions. Thomas Otway's skillful writing, compelling characters, and poignant themes make this play a timeless masterpiece. It is a must-read for lovers of tragic literature and those who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling. First Page: VENICE PRESERVED. A Tragedy, In Five Acts; by THOMAS OTWAY. Correctly Given, As Performed at the Theatres Royal. With Remarks. [Illustration] [Illustration] London: Printed by D. S. Maurice, Fenchurch street; Sold by T. Hughes, 35, Ludgate Street, and J. Bysh, 52, Paternoster Row. REMARKS. This interesting tragedy owes its plot and plan to the Abbé de St. Réal's " Histoire de la Conjuration de Marquis de Bedamar ," or account of the Spanish conspiracy at Venice, of which the Marquis de Bedamar, the ambassador from Spain, was a promoter. Nature and the passions are finely touched in this play; and it continues a favorite, deprived, as it now is in representation, of that mixture of vile comedy which originally diversified the tragic action. It has been remarked, that Belvidera is the only truly valuable character; and indeed the principal fault of this drama seems a want of sufficient and probable motive. DRAMATIS PERSONÆ. Drury Lane, 1814. Covent Garden, 1817. Duke of Venice Mr. Carr. Mr. Creswell. Priuli Mr. Powell. Mr. Egerton. Bedamar Mr. J. Wallack. Mr. Connor. Jaffier Mr. Rae. Mr. C. Kemble. Pierre Mr... Continue reading book >>

Venice Preserved A Tragedy By: Thomas Otway (1652-1685)

Venice Preserved A Tragedy by Thomas Otway is a captivating and emotionally intense play set in 17th-century Venice. This tragic tale immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, love, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice.

The plot revolves around the ill-fated characters of Jaffeir and Belvidera, two lovers who find themselves caught in the midst of a conspiracy against the Venetian government. Jaffeir, torn between his loyalty to his friend Pierre and his love for Belvidera, faces an impossible decision as he must choose between his duty and his heart.

Otway skillfully portrays the complexities of human nature through his well-developed characters. Jaffeir's internal conflict is palpable, and the reader is able to empathize with his anguish and turmoil. Belvidera, too, is a multifaceted character who experiences profound despair and heartache. The depth of their emotions is vividly captured in the poetic and evocative language of the play.

The play also delves into themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The political backdrop of Venice provides a rich context for exploring these themes, as the city's ruling class grapples with the destructive forces at play.

The pacing of the play is exceptional, with moments of heightened tension and dramatic intensity. Otway expertly builds suspense throughout the plot, leading to a climactic and devastating conclusion. The tragedy of Venice Preserved leaves a lasting impact on the reader, reminding us of the destructive power of human frailty and the sacrifices made in the name of love and loyalty.

One aspect that may be challenging for some readers is the play's dense and poetic language. Otway crafts his dialogue with rich imagery and complex metaphors, which may require careful attention to fully appreciate. However, the effort is well worth it, as these poetic flourishes contribute to the play's atmospheric and deeply affecting nature.

Overall, Venice Preserved A Tragedy is a remarkable work of drama that explores the depths of human nature and the consequences of our actions. Thomas Otway's skillful writing, compelling characters, and poignant themes make this play a timeless masterpiece. It is a must-read for lovers of tragic literature and those who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling.

First Page:

VENICE PRESERVED.

A Tragedy,

In Five Acts;

THOMAS OTWAY.

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 interesting tragedy owes its plot and plan to the Abbé de St. Réal's " Histoire de la Conjuration de Marquis de Bedamar ," or account of the Spanish conspiracy at Venice, of which the Marquis de Bedamar, the ambassador from Spain, was a promoter. Nature and the passions are finely touched in this play; and it continues a favorite, deprived, as it now is in representation, of that mixture of vile comedy which originally diversified the tragic action. It has been remarked, that Belvidera is the only truly valuable character; and indeed the principal fault of this drama seems a want of sufficient and probable motive.

DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.

Drury Lane, 1814. Covent Garden, 1817. Duke of Venice Mr. Carr. Mr. Creswell. Priuli Mr. Powell. Mr. Egerton. Bedamar Mr. J. Wallack. Mr. Connor. Jaffier Mr. Rae. Mr. C. Kemble. Pierre Mr... Continue reading book >>

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