The Faithful Shepherdess The Works of Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher (Volume 2 of 10).   By: Francis Beaumont (1584-1616)

"The Faithful Shepherdess" is a beautifully written play that combines poetry, drama, and romance in a captivating narrative. The authors, Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher, have crafted a compelling story that follows the trials and tribulations of a faithful shepherdess named Clorin. The play is filled with rich language, vivid imagery, and complex character dynamics that keep the reader engaged from start to finish.

One of the standout features of the play is the character of Clorin herself. As the titular shepherdess, she embodies loyalty, devotion, and unwavering love in the face of adversity. Her struggles and triumphs are portrayed with depth and nuance, making her a character that readers will root for and empathize with throughout the story.

The play also delves into themes of love, fidelity, and the complexities of human relationships. The interactions between the various characters are fraught with tension, passion, and deception, creating a rich tapestry of emotions that add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Overall, "The Faithful Shepherdess" is a masterfully crafted play that showcases the talents of its authors, Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher. With its poetic language, engaging plot, and memorable characters, this play is a must-read for fans of classic literature and drama.

First Page:

Hail, holy Earth, whose cold Arms do imbrace The truest man that ever fed his flocks By the fat plains of fruitful Thessaly , Thus I salute thy Grave, thus do I pay My early vows, and tribute of mine eyes To thy still loved ashes; thus I free My self from all insuing heats and fires Of love: all sports, delights and jolly games That Shepherds hold full dear, thus put I off. Now no more shall these smooth brows be begirt With youthful Coronals, and lead the Dance; No more the company of fresh fair Maids And wanton Shepherds be to me delightful, Nor the shrill pleasing sound of merry pipes Under some shady dell, when the cool wind Plays on the leaves: all be far away, Since thou art far away; by whose dear side How often have I sat Crown'd with fresh flowers For summers Queen, whil'st every Shepherds Boy Puts on his lusty green, with gaudy hook, And hanging scrip of finest Cordevan. But thou art gone, and these are gone with thee, And all are dead but thy dear memorie; That shall out live thee, and shall ever spring Whilest there are pipes, or jolly Shepherds sing. And here will I in honour of thy love, Dwell by thy Grave, forgeting all those joys, That former times made precious to mine eyes, Only remembring what my youth did gain In the dark, hidden vertuous use of Herbs: That will I practise, and as freely give All my endeavours, as I gain'd them free... Continue reading book >>