Virginia: A Tragedy, and Other Poems

"Virginia: A Tragedy, and Other Poems" by Marion Forster Gilmore is a dramatic play accompanied by a selection of poems that explores themes of honor, love, and justice in the face of abuse. The story centers on Virginia, the daughter of Virginius, a Roman centurion, who finds herself in danger when Appius Claudius, a corrupt and powerful figure, desires her. As Appius uses his power to try and take Virginia, characters like Virginius and Icilius work against him. The play is set against a backdrop of political unrest and rising tension among the citizens of Rome, who are fed up with the oppressive rule of the Decemvirs. Virginia's future becomes uncertain as her loved ones fight to protect her from the looming threat, leading to a confrontation.