Mithridate

A tragedy written in the late 17th century. The play explores themes of power, betrayal, and familial conflict through the story of Mithridate, the king of Pontus, and his doomed relationship with his sons Xipharès and Pharnace. Central to the narrative is Monime, the queen, who becomes the object of contention between the two brothers amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and personal vendettas. The opening of the play establishes the dramatic tension set against the backdrop of Mithridate's recent defeat by the Romans and the ensuing struggles within his family. Xipharès expresses his loyalty to his father, while harboring feelings for Monime, who has been promised to Mithridate. Meanwhile, Pharnace, conflicted yet ambitious, is depicted as both a rival and a schemer, seeking to win over Monime for himself while cunningly manipulating the royal family dynamics. Throughout this act, the seeds of distrust are sown, revealing the fractures in the royal family and the complexity of duty versus personal desire, setting the stage for the unfolding tragedy.