Details

Written in 1611, the play exists only in manuscript form and its true authorship is shrouded in mystery. Within the play, two very different plots intertwine: in the first - a court tragedy - the Tyrant has overthrown the rightful king, Govianus. Now he has all he dreamt of, save one thing: Govianus' wife, the Lady. When she kills herself to save her honour, the Tyrant - determined to have her even in death - robs the Lady's grave and chillingly installs her corpse as his queen. The second is a tale of domestic strife: Anselmus, a jealous husband, enlists the help of his friend Votarius to test his wife's virtue. As Votarius plays at seducing the wife, love smites both of them with tragic consequences.

Creatives/Company

Author: Thomas Middleton