Mary Magdalene E-Book

Maurice Maeterlinck

• Herausgeber: Booksell-Verlag
• Kategorie: Sachliteratur, Reportagen, Biografien
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021

Beschreibung

In 'Mary Magdalene,' Maurice Maeterlinck explores the complexities of faith, redemption, and the female experience through a profound philosophical lens. This work stands out for its lyrical prose and rich symbolism, characteristic of Symbolist literature, reflecting Maeterlinck's affinity for blending poetry with narrative depth. The narrative navigates the spiritual journey of Mary Magdalene, often considered a controversial figure in religious texts, inviting readers to reassess their perceptions of sin, grace, and the transformative power of love. Set against the backdrop of religious and philosophical discourse prevalent in the early 20th century, this book engages deeply with existential themes while maintaining an aura of mystical beauty. Maurice Maeterlinck, a Belgian playwright, poet, and essayist, was a leading figure of the Symbolist movement, influenced by his own background in mystical beliefs and psychology. His intimate understanding of the human condition and spirituality is evident in his portrayal of Mary Magdalene, suggesting a yearning to illuminate the often-overlooked voices in religious narratives. Maeterlinck's profound insights into the psyche and spirit were shaped by both his literary influences and his personal contemplations on suffering and redemption. This captivating work is highly recommended for readers seeking a deeper understanding of religious archetypes and the feminine divine. Maeterlinck's thoughtful exploration of Mary Magdalene's complex identity not only enriches the reader's grasp of biblical history but also resonates with contemporary themes of empowerment and spiritual awakening. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Leseprobe

Maurice Maeterlinck

Mary Magdalene

A Play In Three Acts

Published by Good Press, 2022

[email protected]

EAN 4064066448240

Table of Contents

Mary Magdalene: A Play In Three Acts

Characters

Act I

Act II

Act III

Mary Magdalene: A Play In Three Acts

Table of Contents

BY MAURICE MAETERLINCK

TRANSLATED BY ALEXANDER TEIXEIRA DE MATTOS

THIRD EDITION

METHUEN & CO. LTD. 36 ESSEX STREET W.C. LONDON

First Edition published by Mcthutn &• Co. Ltd....October 6th, 1910Second Edition ....October 1910Third Edition.....January 1911

Author's Note

Characters

Act I

Act II

Act III

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

I have borrowed from Mr. Paul 'Heyse's drama, Maria von Magdala, the idea of two situations in my play, namely, at the end of the first act, the intervention of Christ, who stops the crowd raging against Mary Magdalene with these words, spoken behind the scenes: "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone;" and, in the third, the dilemma in which the great sinner finds herself, of saving or destroying the Son of God, according as she consents or refuses to give herself to a Roman.

Before setting to work, I asked the venerable German poet, whom I hold in the highest esteem, for his permission to develop those two situations, which, so to speak, were merely sketched in his play, with its incomparably richer plot than mine; and I offered to recognize his rights in whatever manner he thought proper. My respectful request was answered with a refusal, none too courteous, I regret to say, and almost threatening.

From that moment, I was bound to consider that the words from the Gospel, quoted above, are common property; and that the dilemma of which I speak is one of those which occur pretty frequently in dramatic literature. It seemed to me the more lawful to make use of it inasmuch as I had happened to imagine it in the fourth act of Joyzelle, in the same year in which Maria von Magdala was published and before I was able to become acquainted with that play.

I will add that, excepting the principle of these two situations, in all that concerns the subject of the play, the conduct of the action, the persons, the characters, the evolution and the atmosphere, our two works have absolutely nothing in common: not a phrase, not a cue of the one will be found in the other.

Having said this, I am happy to express to the aged master my gratitude for an intellectual benefit which is none the less great for being involuntary.

Maurice Maeterlinck.

CHARACTERS:

Table of Contents

Lucius Verus, a military tribune

Annceus Silanus

Appius

Ccelius

Lazarus

Joseph Of Arimathea

Nicodemus

Bartimaeus

Slaves, Blind Men, Cripples, Sick Men, Vagrants, and Men Cured By Miracles, Etc.

Mary Magdalene

Martha

Mary Cleophas

Mary Salome

Other Saints, Beggar-women, and Harlots, Etc.

The first and second acts take place at Bethany; the third act at Jerusalem.

ACT I:

Table of Contents

(The gardens of ANNCEUS SILANUS at Bethany. A Roman terrace. A quincunx. Marble benches, porticoes, and statues. In the center, there is a basin with a fountain. Arbors. Orange-trees and laurel-trees are in the stone vases. A balustrade on the right side and the left side, overlooking the valley. A balustrade at the back side, open at the middle to give access to a walk lined with plane-trees and statues and ending in a thick hedge of laurels which closes the garden.)

SCENE I:

(Enter

ANNCEUS SILANUS

and

LUCIUS VERUS

.)