Count Alarcos; a Tragedy By: Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881)
Count Alarcos; a Tragedy by Benjamin Disraeli is a captivating and thought-provoking literary work set in medieval Spain. Disraeli, widely known for his political career, surprises readers with this tragic tale that explores themes of honor, love, betrayal, and the pursuit of power. The story revolves around Count Alarcos, a nobleman torn between his duty to his king and his forbidden love for the beautiful and virtuous Queen Victoria. Disraeli skillfully weaves together a complex web of intrigue and political machinations, showcasing the struggle of individuals caught between their personal desires and societal expectations. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Disraeli's ability to breathe life into his characters. Count Alarcos is portrayed as a tortured soul, torn between his loyalty to the crown and his longing for a forbidden love. The internal struggle he faces is palpable, leaving readers questioning the nature of duty and the extent to which one should sacrifice personal happiness for the greater good. The supporting characters, such as the conniving Duke of Rivas and the fiercely loyal Marquis of Pescara, add depth and complexity to the story. Disraeli masterfully crafts their motivations and interactions, creating a rich tapestry of alliances and personal vendettas that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, the setting of medieval Spain serves as a mesmerizing backdrop for the tale of love and tragedy. Disraeli's vivid descriptions immerse readers in this era of chivalry, courtly intrigue, and political unrest. The rich historical details make the story feel authentic, inviting readers to explore a world that is simultaneously enchanting and treacherous. While the narrative brims with passion and emotion, some readers might find the pacing of the plot a bit sluggish at times. Disraeli takes his time to delve into the complexities of his characters' inner turmoil, which may slow the story's progression. However, this meticulous examination of the characters' psyches ultimately pays off, as it leads to a more profound understanding of their motivations and actions. In conclusion, Count Alarcos; a Tragedy is a remarkable literary achievement by Benjamin Disraeli. With its intriguing storyline, well-developed characters, and rich historical backdrop, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and tragic tales. Disraeli's exploration of love, loyalty, and the human condition leaves readers pondering the timeless themes embedded within this captivating work. First Page: COUNT ALARCOS A TRAGEDY By Benjamin Disraeli As there is no historical authority for the events of the celebrated Ballad on which this Tragedy is founded, I have fixed upon the thirteenth century for the period of their occurrence. At that time the kingdom of Castille had recently obtained that supremacy in Spain which led, in a subsequent age, to the political integrity of the country. Burgos, its capital, was a magnificent city; and then also arose that masterpiece of Christian architecture, its famous Cathedral. This state of comparative refinement and civilisation permitted the introduction of more complicated motives than the rude manners of the Ballad would have authorised; while the picturesque features of the Castillian middle ages still flourished in full force; the factions of a powerful nobility, renowned for their turbulence, strong passions, enormous crimes, profound superstition. [Delta] London: May, 1839 DRAMATIS PERSONAE THE KING OF CASTILLE. COUNT ALARCOS, a Prince of the Blood. COUNT OF SIDONIA. COUNT OF LEON. PRIOR OF BURGOS. ORAN, a Moor. FERDINAND, a PAGE. GUZMAN JACA, a BRAVO. GRAUS, the Keeper of a Posada. SOLISA, Infanta of Castille, only child of the King... Continue reading book >>

Count Alarcos; a Tragedy By: Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881)

Count Alarcos; a Tragedy by Benjamin Disraeli is a captivating and thought-provoking literary work set in medieval Spain. Disraeli, widely known for his political career, surprises readers with this tragic tale that explores themes of honor, love, betrayal, and the pursuit of power.

The story revolves around Count Alarcos, a nobleman torn between his duty to his king and his forbidden love for the beautiful and virtuous Queen Victoria. Disraeli skillfully weaves together a complex web of intrigue and political machinations, showcasing the struggle of individuals caught between their personal desires and societal expectations.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Disraeli's ability to breathe life into his characters. Count Alarcos is portrayed as a tortured soul, torn between his loyalty to the crown and his longing for a forbidden love. The internal struggle he faces is palpable, leaving readers questioning the nature of duty and the extent to which one should sacrifice personal happiness for the greater good.

The supporting characters, such as the conniving Duke of Rivas and the fiercely loyal Marquis of Pescara, add depth and complexity to the story. Disraeli masterfully crafts their motivations and interactions, creating a rich tapestry of alliances and personal vendettas that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Furthermore, the setting of medieval Spain serves as a mesmerizing backdrop for the tale of love and tragedy. Disraeli's vivid descriptions immerse readers in this era of chivalry, courtly intrigue, and political unrest. The rich historical details make the story feel authentic, inviting readers to explore a world that is simultaneously enchanting and treacherous.

While the narrative brims with passion and emotion, some readers might find the pacing of the plot a bit sluggish at times. Disraeli takes his time to delve into the complexities of his characters' inner turmoil, which may slow the story's progression. However, this meticulous examination of the characters' psyches ultimately pays off, as it leads to a more profound understanding of their motivations and actions.

In conclusion, Count Alarcos; a Tragedy is a remarkable literary achievement by Benjamin Disraeli. With its intriguing storyline, well-developed characters, and rich historical backdrop, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and tragic tales. Disraeli's exploration of love, loyalty, and the human condition leaves readers pondering the timeless themes embedded within this captivating work.

First Page:

COUNT ALARCOS

A TRAGEDY

By Benjamin Disraeli

As there is no historical authority for the events of the celebrated Ballad on which this Tragedy is founded, I have fixed upon the thirteenth century for the period of their occurrence. At that time the kingdom of Castille had recently obtained that supremacy in Spain which led, in a subsequent age, to the political integrity of the country. Burgos, its capital, was a magnificent city; and then also arose that masterpiece of Christian architecture, its famous Cathedral.

This state of comparative refinement and civilisation permitted the introduction of more complicated motives than the rude manners of the Ballad would have authorised; while the picturesque features of the Castillian middle ages still flourished in full force; the factions of a powerful nobility, renowned for their turbulence, strong passions, enormous crimes, profound superstition.

[Delta]

London: May, 1839

DRAMATIS PERSONAE

THE KING OF CASTILLE. COUNT ALARCOS, a Prince of the Blood. COUNT OF SIDONIA. COUNT OF LEON. PRIOR OF BURGOS. ORAN, a Moor. FERDINAND, a PAGE. GUZMAN JACA, a BRAVO. GRAUS, the Keeper of a Posada.

SOLISA, Infanta of Castille, only child of the King... Continue reading book >>

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