Der König Candaules: Drama in Drei Akten

''Der König Candaules: Drama in drei Akten'' by André Gide is a dramatic play written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Candaules, the king of Lydia, who is both rich and powerful, yet deeply troubled by his own vulnerabilities and his need for validation from others. As the play unfolds, it delves into themes of friendship, desire, and the paradox of happiness intertwined with possession and exposure. The opening of ''Der König Candaules'' introduces us to the luxurious setting of a royal feast where Candaules is surrounded by sycophants, celebrating his wealth and status. The main character, Gyges, a humble fisherman who has fallen into the king's favor, reflects on the superficiality and the deception surrounding Candaules. The tone is established as Gyges ponders his own insignificance and the fickle nature of human relationships, setting the stage for the complex interplay of love, jealousy, and betrayal that will ensue. The tension builds as Candaules expresses his wish to showcase the beauty of his queen, Nyssia, even as the implications of such exposure begin to surface, hinting at the drama and conflict that the characters will face.