"Œuvres de P. Corneille, Tome 05" by Pierre Corneille is a collection of dramatic works written in the mid-17th century. This volume particularly features the tragedy "Théodore, vierge et martyre," which explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and the struggle against societal norms. The central character, Théodore, is a Christian virgin facing the perils of persecution and moral dilemmas in a tumultuous political and social environment. The opening of this tragedy sets the stage for intense character interactions and dramatic conflicts. We are introduced to Placide, the son of the governor Valens, who struggles with his affections for Théodore, despite his commitments and the pressure from his family to marry another. Marcelle, Placide's mother, exhibits a fierce determination to eliminate Théodore, viewing her as an obstacle to her ambitions for her daughter Flavie. The narrative explores the tension between personal desires and societal expectations, with Théodore's unwavering faith and purity clashing against the corrupt and politically motivated actions of those around her. As the characters navigate their complex relationships, the audience is drawn into a tale of love, jealousy, and the quest for redemption amidst impending doom. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
