Frank J. Morlock Ordre des livres

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.

This collection features a diverse array of seven plays, blending comedy and drama with unique narratives. It includes whimsical fairy tales like THE ROSE PRINCESS and THE GOLDEN GOBLIN, set in quasi-medieval worlds, alongside the comedic chaos of REHEARSING DON QUIXOTE. BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME offers a twist on Civil War-era mourning, while CHRISTMAS AT THOMPSON HALL critiques Victorian values. Additionally, ROBERT THE DEVIL presents a historical tale of redemption. The anthology showcases the richness of theatrical storytelling in compact forms.

Each play offers a unique comedic twist on complex relationships and identity. In "The Yiddish Hamlet," a playwright's pride turns to dismay when his serious work is transformed into a comedy. "The Congressman's Nightmare" explores the chaos unleashed by a politician's ex-wife, jeopardizing his career. Meanwhile, "The Moonshine Vine" follows a scholar's chaotic life as his wife's transformation leads to absurd situations. Together, these plays showcase Morlock's talent for blending humor with insightful commentary on human nature.

Exploring societal hypocrisy, the collection features three comedies. In "Whitewashing Julia," Julia Wren, initially shunned for past scandal, becomes desirable when her protectors face their own dilemmas. "The Seven Cream Jugs" presents a humorous family dynamic where a kleptomaniac relative disrupts a wedding, leaving the family in a comical bind. "Violent Attachments" follows the misadventures of two affected noblewomen whose intense friendship leads to absurd situations. Together, these tales offer witty commentary on social norms and human behavior.

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.

The adaptation explores the intense familial conflict between Tsar Peter the Great and his son, Tsarevitch Alexis, set against the backdrop of Peter's relentless drive to modernize Russia. The narrative delves into themes of power, resistance, and tragic love, highlighting the brutal lengths Peter goes to suppress opposition, even from his own heir. Despite their mutual affection, the deep political rift between them leads to an inevitable and heartbreaking confrontation, reflecting timeless struggles that resonate with contemporary issues.