The House of Rimmon: A Drama in Four Acts

"The House of Rimmon: A Drama in Four Acts" by Henry Van Dyke is a stirring play set in ancient Damascus, around 836 B.C., that explores the challenging choices between duty and personal conviction. The story follows Naaman, a captain in the army, struck with leprosy for standing against the deceitful practices within the House of Rimmon. As he grapples with his illness, he is drawn to the promise of healing and love offered by Ruahmah, a captive girl, which leads him on a transformative journey to the prophet Elisha in Israel. His path is fraught with peril, as Naaman deals with betrayal, tests of loyalty with his wife, Tsarpi, and the all-consuming conflict between embracing a new faith and confronting the oppressive powers of Rimmon's priesthood. The heart of the drama lies in the battle between spiritual awakening and the heavy burdens of societal expectations, showcasing the ultimate victory of love and faith over injustice.