Aria da Capo by Edna St. Vincent Millay

"Aria da Capo" by Edna St. Vincent Millay is a play in one act written in the early 20th century. This theatrical work presents a whimsical yet poignant narrative that delves into themes of love, the intricacies of relationships, and the contrast between tragedy and farce. Set within a colorful and metaphorical framework, it intertwines elements of both comedy and seriousness, presenting a unique commentary on human emotions and societal expectations. The story unfolds in a two-part structure, beginning with the main characters, Pierrot and Columbine, engaged in a seemingly trivial dining conversation filled with humor and banter. Their light-hearted interaction is interrupted by Cothurnus, a figure representing the weight of tragedy, who attempts to integrate a more serious tone. Meanwhile, shepherds Thyrsis and Corydon illustrate their own narrative of conflict and disillusionment as they quarrel over imaginary boundaries between themselves and their sheep. The play juxtaposes these two dialogues, ultimately leading to a tragic conclusion where misunderstandings and jealousy culminate in violent circumstances, only to be ignored and transformed back into farce by Pierrot and Columbine. This cyclical structure emphasizes the absurdity of life, a reflection on the human condition wrapped in humor and sorrow. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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About this eBook

Author Millay, Edna St. Vincent, 1892-1950
Title Aria da Capo
Credits Produced by David Starner, and David Widger
Reading Level Reading ease score: 84.4 (6th grade). Easy to read.
Language English
LoC Class PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature
Subject War -- Drama
Subject Didactic drama
Subject Shepherds -- Drama
Subject Friendship -- Drama
Subject Alienation (Social psychology) -- Drama
Category Text
eBook-No. 5790
Release Date
Last Update Feb 7, 2013
Copyright Public domain in the USA.
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