Cenci by Percy Bysshe Shelley is a powerful and haunting play that delves into the depths of human emotions and morality. The story follows the Cenci family, fraught with dysfunction and tragedy, as they navigate the complexities of love, power, and revenge.

Shelley masterfully weaves a tale that is both captivating and unsettling, drawing the reader into a world of darkness and despair. The characters are complex and flawed, each driven by their own desires and demons. The tension between them is palpable, creating a sense of unease that lingers throughout the play.

The themes of justice, corruption, and the nature of evil are explored with nuance and depth. Shelley's lyrical prose and vivid imagery bring the story to life, immersing the reader in a world of deceit and betrayal.

Overall, Cenci is a gripping and thought-provoking work that will stay with the reader long after they have finished it. Shelley's exploration of the darker aspects of human nature is both unsettling and compelling, making this play a must-read for fans of classic literature.

Book Description:
Written in 1819, but not first staged for over hundred years after it was written due to controversial themes of incest and parricide, it was not considered stageable. This tragedy is a true story, set in Rome, 1599, centred around the murder of the tyrant, Count Francesco Cenci, by his tormented daughter, Beatrice. - Summary by Jake Malizia Cast list: Count Francesco Cenci Greg Giordano Lucretia, wife of Cenci and step-mother of his children Sonia Beatrice, daughter of Cenci Jenn Broda Orsino, a Prelate ToddHW Cardinal Camillo Alan Mapstone First Guest Lynette Caulkins Second Guest Larry Wilson Third Guest David Purdy Andrea, servant to Cenci Jake Malizia Bernardo, son of Cenci HelloCentral Giacomo, son of Cenci Adrian Stephens Servant David Purdy Guard David Purdy Officer Alan Mapstone Marzio, assassin Larry Wilson Olimpio, assassin Andrew Gaunce Savella, the Pope's Legate Rob Marland First Judge Sanarik Moirangthem Stage Directions Jake Malizia Editing: Jake Malizia