Frank J. Morlock Livres

The play features the iconic character Falstaff, drawing from scenes in Shakespeare's Henry IV and The Merry Wives of Windsor, alongside elements from William Kendrick's Falstaff's Wedding and John Dennis's The Comical Gallant. Frank J. Morlock adds his own original material, creating a blend of drama and comedy that captures the essence of Falstaff's character. This work promises to be both a tribute and a fresh take on the beloved figure, showcasing Morlock's skill in weaving classic and new narratives.

This collection presents seven original plays featuring the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes as he faces off against a diverse array of characters, including the infamous Fantômas, Count Dracula, and Father Brown. Each play offers a unique twist on Holmes' adventures, showcasing his legendary deductive skills in thrilling confrontations with these notable figures, including a surprising encounter with Theodore Roosevelt. This compilation promises to delight fans of mystery and classic literature alike.

Set against a backdrop of political turmoil, the narrative follows Razumov, a Russian student entangled in a murder plot after his friend Haldin seeks refuge following the assassination of a Tsarist minister. Torn between loyalty and self-preservation, Razumov betrays Haldin to the secret police and is later coerced into espionage in Geneva. As guilt overwhelms him, he confesses his actions to Haldin's sister, leading to a gripping exploration of betrayal and the moral complexities of political activism.

The story centers on Oblomov, a kind-hearted young man who is paralyzed by lethargy, preferring to remain in bed rather than engage with the world. His friends, both male and female, attempt to rouse him from his inertia, leading to a series of humorous failures. The character has become iconic, representing a specific type of indolence within the upper classes, giving rise to the term "Oblomovism" to describe self-imposed laziness. This dramatic comedy explores themes of inactivity and societal expectations.

The play explores the internal conflict of Hyacinth Robinson, a bookbinder in London's slums and the illegitimate son of a French woman and an English lord. Initially drawn to radical politics and anarchist conspiracies, Hyacinth faces a moral dilemma when tasked with a terrorist mission. As he grapples with his loyalties and ideals, he realizes the inescapable consequences of his choices. This adaptation of Henry James's novel presents a gripping narrative of duty, identity, and the struggle between personal beliefs and societal expectations.

The narrative follows a hero's whimsical sexual adventures, weaving through space and time while encountering historical figures. With a blend of irony and satire, the story critiques life and sexuality, showcasing the protagonist's charm as his primary means of escape from misadventures. Originally controversial due to its bold sexual innuendos, the tale now offers a humorous perspective, making it a sophisticated comedy for adults with sharp, satirical insights.

Exploring the absurdities of British high society, this collection features two plays adapted from Robert Hichens' works by Frank J. Morlock. "The Londoners" satirizes early 20th-century English snobbery and traditions, particularly through the lens of the Ascot races, showcasing a vibrant cast of eccentric characters. In "The Green Carnation," the adaptation captures Oscar Wilde's flamboyant style while cleverly critiquing it. Both plays are humorous and sharp, highlighting Morlock's talent in bringing Hichens' social commentary to life.

Exploring themes of survival and resilience, the collection features four plays by Frank J. Morlock. "The Key to the Great Gate" delves into the horrors of 1942 Vienna, where a Jewish prisoner manipulates time to cope with Nazi oppression. "Heroes and Romantics of Our Times" critiques small-town corruption through a sheriff's twisted relationship. "Lady Liberty" presents a man's escape from his marriage in a sanitarium, while "The Writing Lesson" humorously tackles the challenges of writing under Stalinist censorship. Each play highlights the struggles of the underdog.

The narrative centers on the intense interaction between the Underground Man, a disillusioned and introspective character, and Lisa, a prostitute who embodies both vulnerability and strength. This encounter unveils deep themes of alienation, morality, and the complexities of human relationships, reflecting the darker aspects of Russian society. Dostoyevsky's work serves as a profound exploration of existential angst and the struggle for connection in a fragmented world.

The story follows Prince Myshkin, a compassionate yet naive character who becomes embroiled in a complex love triangle upon his return to Russia. His pure-hearted nature and good intentions lead to unforeseen consequences, affecting both his life and the lives of those around him. Inspired by Dostoyevsky's classic novel, this narrative explores themes of morality, innocence, and the challenges of being virtuous in a flawed society.