Beaumont and Fletcher's Works, Vol. 05 of 10

A collection of theatrical plays and tragicomedies likely written in the early 17th century. The volume features several titles, with ''A Wife for a Month'' being one of the primary works included. The plays explore themes of love, honor, and the intersection of personal desires with societal expectations, often weaving intricate theatrical plots filled with drama and humor. The opening of ''A Wife for a Month'' introduces a tense and complicated love triangle involving King Frederick, his desired love Evanthe, and her husband, Valerio. Frederick expresses his affection for Evanthe in a manner that challenges social conventions, sparking both intrigue and tension. As Frederick's intentions are revealed, the inherent conflict between desire and loyalty comes to light, foreshadowing the dramatic moral dilemmas that the characters will face throughout the play. The initial interactions set the stage for a complex exploration of love and power, pivotal to the unfolding narrative.