Representative Plays by American Dramatists: 1856-1911: Francesca da Rimini

"Francesca da Rimini" by George Henry Boker is a tragic play that tells the story of a woman named Francesca caught between duty and desire in medieval Italy. Set against a backdrop of warring noble families, Francesca is arranged to marry the fearsome Lanciotto, but finds herself drawn to his more gentle and handsome brother, Paolo. The play begins with lighthearted banter among noblemen, quickly leading into the tension of Lanciotto's insecurities about his appearance and his upcoming marriage to a stranger. Paolo's kind nature is shown early on, setting the scene for a passionate and forbidden love that challenges familial loyalty and societal rules with deadly outcomes. Themes of love, honor, and fate play out as emotions clash with the demands of the time period.