Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - the Custom of the Country By: John Fletcher (1579-1625)
In "Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - The Custom of the Country" by John Fletcher, readers are taken on a captivating journey through a tumultuous era. Set against the backdrop of political unrest, this play presents a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and love. The plot revolves around the ambitious Duke of Florence, Leontio, who resorts to treacherous means in order to maintain his grip on power. Leontio's deceptive ways know no bounds, as he manipulates individuals and orchestrates a series of betrayals to ensure his reign remains unchallenged. However, his cunning nature comes face-to-face with the ultimate test when he encounters Hippolito, his match in ambition. One of the most intriguing aspects of this play is the dynamic character development. Fletcher masterfully crafts multifaceted characters who undergo significant transformations throughout the story. Hippolito, for instance, starts as a loyal follower, but as his conscience awakens, he becomes a formidable adversary to Leontio. The intricacies of their relationship, filled with power struggles and shifting alliances, keep readers engrossed until the final act. The exploration of love and its complexities is another noteworthy aspect of the play. Fletcher skillfully weaves together various romantic subplots, each with its own unique set of challenges. From secret trysts to forbidden passions, the characters' desires constantly collide with societal expectations, leading to intense emotional conflicts that are both relatable and thought-provoking. Furthermore, the rich and ornate language employed by Fletcher adds another layer of beauty and depth to the play. The eloquent dialogue reflects the attitudes and manners of the time, transporting readers to a world of courtly intrigue and eloquent soliloquies. The mastery with which the playwright manipulates language, effortlessly switching between comedic wit and heart-wrenching introspection, showcases his unparalleled skill as a writer. While "The Custom of the Country" is the first installment in Beaumont & Fletcher's Works, it stands strong as an individual piece. Its engaging plot, memorable characters, and compelling themes make for an entertaining read that captures the essence of the Jacobean era. Fans of historical dramas and classic literature will undoubtedly find themselves captivated by this masterful play. In conclusion, "Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - The Custom of the Country" is a remarkable play that immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, passion, and moral dilemmas. John Fletcher's impeccable writing and characterization make this a must-read for anyone seeking an engaging and thought-provoking historical drama. First Page: THE CUSTOM OF THE COUNTRY. Persons Represented in the Play. Count Clodio, Governour and a dishonourable pursuer of Zenocia. Manuel du Sosa, Governour of Lisbon, and Brother to Guiomar. Arnoldo, A Gentleman contracted to Zenocia. Rutilio, A merry Gentleman Brother to Arnoldo. Charino, Father to Zenocia. Duarte, Son to Guiomar, a Gentleman well qualified but vain glorious . Alonzo, a young Portugal Gentleman, enemy to Duarte. Leopold, a Sea Captain Enamour'd on Hippolyta. Zabulon, a Jew, servant to Hippolyta. Jaques, servant to Sulpitia. Doctor. Chirurgion. Officers. Guard. Page. Bravo. Knaves, of the Male Stewes . Servants. WOMEN. Zenocia, Mistress to Arnoldo, and a chaste Wife . Guiomar, a vertuous Lady, Mother to Duarte. Hippolyta, a rich Lady, wantonly in Love with Arnoldo. Sulpitia, a Bawd, Mistress of the Male Stewes . The Scene sometimes Lisbon, sometimes Italy. The principal Actors were Joseph Taylor . Robert Benfeild . John Lowin . William Eglestone . Nicholas Toolie . Richard Sharpe . John Underwood . Thomas Holcomb . Actus primus... Continue reading book >>

Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - the Custom of the Country By: John Fletcher (1579-1625)

In "Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - The Custom of the Country" by John Fletcher, readers are taken on a captivating journey through a tumultuous era. Set against the backdrop of political unrest, this play presents a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and love.

The plot revolves around the ambitious Duke of Florence, Leontio, who resorts to treacherous means in order to maintain his grip on power. Leontio's deceptive ways know no bounds, as he manipulates individuals and orchestrates a series of betrayals to ensure his reign remains unchallenged. However, his cunning nature comes face-to-face with the ultimate test when he encounters Hippolito, his match in ambition.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this play is the dynamic character development. Fletcher masterfully crafts multifaceted characters who undergo significant transformations throughout the story. Hippolito, for instance, starts as a loyal follower, but as his conscience awakens, he becomes a formidable adversary to Leontio. The intricacies of their relationship, filled with power struggles and shifting alliances, keep readers engrossed until the final act.

The exploration of love and its complexities is another noteworthy aspect of the play. Fletcher skillfully weaves together various romantic subplots, each with its own unique set of challenges. From secret trysts to forbidden passions, the characters' desires constantly collide with societal expectations, leading to intense emotional conflicts that are both relatable and thought-provoking.

Furthermore, the rich and ornate language employed by Fletcher adds another layer of beauty and depth to the play. The eloquent dialogue reflects the attitudes and manners of the time, transporting readers to a world of courtly intrigue and eloquent soliloquies. The mastery with which the playwright manipulates language, effortlessly switching between comedic wit and heart-wrenching introspection, showcases his unparalleled skill as a writer.

While "The Custom of the Country" is the first installment in Beaumont & Fletcher's Works, it stands strong as an individual piece. Its engaging plot, memorable characters, and compelling themes make for an entertaining read that captures the essence of the Jacobean era. Fans of historical dramas and classic literature will undoubtedly find themselves captivated by this masterful play.

In conclusion, "Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - The Custom of the Country" is a remarkable play that immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, passion, and moral dilemmas. John Fletcher's impeccable writing and characterization make this a must-read for anyone seeking an engaging and thought-provoking historical drama.

First Page:

THE CUSTOM OF THE COUNTRY.

Persons Represented in the Play.

Count Clodio, Governour and a dishonourable pursuer of Zenocia. Manuel du Sosa, Governour of Lisbon, and Brother to Guiomar. Arnoldo, A Gentleman contracted to Zenocia. Rutilio, A merry Gentleman Brother to Arnoldo. Charino, Father to Zenocia. Duarte, Son to Guiomar, a Gentleman well qualified but vain glorious . Alonzo, a young Portugal Gentleman, enemy to Duarte. Leopold, a Sea Captain Enamour'd on Hippolyta. Zabulon, a Jew, servant to Hippolyta. Jaques, servant to Sulpitia. Doctor. Chirurgion. Officers. Guard. Page. Bravo. Knaves, of the Male Stewes . Servants.

WOMEN.

Zenocia, Mistress to Arnoldo, and a chaste Wife . Guiomar, a vertuous Lady, Mother to Duarte. Hippolyta, a rich Lady, wantonly in Love with Arnoldo. Sulpitia, a Bawd, Mistress of the Male Stewes .

The Scene sometimes Lisbon, sometimes Italy.

The principal Actors were Joseph Taylor . Robert Benfeild . John Lowin . William Eglestone . Nicholas Toolie . Richard Sharpe . John Underwood . Thomas Holcomb .

Actus primus... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – John Fletcher
Wikipedia – Beaumont & Fletcher's Works (1 of 10) - the Custom of the Country

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