Vera; Or, The Nihilists

"Vera; Or, The Nihilists" by Oscar Wilde is a play set in 19th-century Russia that brings to life the tumultuous era of Nihilism, a revolutionary movement against the oppressive Tsarist regime. The story begins with Vera Sabouroff, her father, and a peasant named Michael awaiting Vera's return at a Russian inn, anxiety hanging heavy in the air as they speak of Vera’s brother, Dmitri, imprisoned in Moscow for his revolutionary activities. The arrival of soldiers escorting prisoners, one of whom is Vera's own brother, ignites a firestorm of emotions, solidifying her resolve to avenge her brother and fight for the liberation of Russia. Vera's personal struggle against political corruption and the price she is willing to pay for freedom drive the narrative, foreshadowing a dramatic series of events as she throws herself into the heart of the revolution.