Described by Voltaire as “the masterpiece of the human mind”, Phèdre is the greatest work of one of Europe’s best playwrights, Jean Racine.
Phaedra harbours a shameful secret: she loves her stepson, Hippolytus. On hearing news of the death of her husband, Theseus, she is persuaded not to commit suicide, but rather to live for the sake of her young sons. However, after inadvertently revealing herself to Hippolytus, Phaedra is stunned by a startling chain of events forcing her to confront a choice of tragic consequences between reputation and integrity.
In its depiction of the repercussions of illicit love, Phèdre explores the causes of suffering, the limits of morality and the uncontrollable nature of human passion.
Merton Floats’ raw and vital production in the dramatic and atmospheric setting of the college’s mediaeval chapel is certainly not one to be missed!
Admission: £6(£5)
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