Summary
"Campaspe," a drama first produced and published in 1584 by John Lyly, epitomizes the elegance of Elizabethan language and offers a glimpse into historical-romantic comedy. The story unfolds in ancient Athens around 325 B.C. and explores the tension between worldly desires and higher aspirations. King Alexander's entanglement with love and power, alongside the contrasting philosophical musings of Diogenes, creates a narrative that challenges the audience to ponder deeper questions about life's priorities.
Setting the Stage
"Campaspe" is set in the bustling city of Athens, where the mighty King Alexander of Macedon has taken the lovely Campaspe, a maiden from Thebes, captive after conquering her city. The play's characters include not just Alexander and Campaspe but also notable figures like Hephestion, Alexander's steadfast general, and Diogenes, the infamous philosopher known for his cynicism. The presence of Apelles, a talented painter, and Manes, Diogenes' servant, further enriches the tapestry of the story.
Lyly's Language and Influence
John Lyly, celebrated for his euphuistic style, sought to elevate the language of his time, infusing his work with graceful and refined diction. In "Campaspe," while the plot may lack dramatic unity and character development, it compensates with its lyrical beauty and sophisticated dialogue. The play's famous lyrics, such as "Cupid and my Campaspe played/ At cards for kisses," highlight Lyly's contribution to the evolution of English drama. Though it may not boast the dramatic weight of later works, "Campaspe" offered a foundation of delicate language and sentiment that influenced future playwrights.
The Unfolding Drama
As the play begins, King Alexander, having triumphed over Thebes, assures Campaspe of gentle treatment. Meanwhile, Diogenes, notorious for his austerity, resides in Athens, where his servant, Manes, laments their meager existence to others, including Plato's and Apelles' servants. The intellectual elite, summoned by Alexander, engage in philosophical discussions on the cosmos and mortality until Diogenes interrupts to criticize their flattery towards the king. His exchanges with the servants are sharp and witty, showcasing his irreverent nature.
Love and Loyalty
In a revealing conversation with Hephestion, Alexander confesses his love for Campaspe, much to his general's dismay. Hephestion argues that love weakens warriors, but Alexander insists on his right to cherish this emotion. The king's visit to Diogenes further illustrates the philosopher's disdain for authority, as he dismisses Alexander's inquiries with blunt honesty. Meanwhile, Apelles is engrossed in painting Campaspe's portrait, captivated by her beauty yet aware of the boundaries set by her royal admirer.
Unrequited and Forbidden Love
As Apelles works on Campaspe's portrait, their interactions are laced with unspoken attraction. Despite Campaspe's dismissive attitude towards flattery, Apelles secretly nurtures feelings for her, aware of the futility of aspiring to a king's beloved. In moments of solitude, Apelles expresses his sorrow in song, lamenting the unattainable love he harbors for Campaspe. His emotional turmoil is a counterpoint to Alexander's grand love, presenting a poignant exploration of passion and power.
Philosophical Interludes
The play also weaves in comic elements as Diogenes promises to fly, drawing a curious crowd. However, the philosopher seizes the opportunity to deliver a scathing critique of Athenian society. His caustic wit amuses the servants but aggravates the onlookers, who eventually disperse in frustration. This scene underscores Diogenes' role as a provocateur, challenging societal norms and expectations.
Revelations and Resolutions
In a moment of introspection, Campaspe questions her feelings for Apelles versus Alexander. Apelles, too, admits his love for her in a veiled conversation, culminating in a mutual confession of affection at his studio. However, fear of Alexander's wrath looms over their declaration. When a page announces Alexander's request for the finished portrait, the lovers' anxiety intensifies.
Climactic...
(This entire section contains 951 words.)
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Confrontations
The tension escalates as Alexander plots to test Apelles' loyalty by staging a fire at his studio. When Apelles rushes to safeguard Campaspe's portrait, Alexander confronts him, revealing his stratagem and compelling the painter to confess his love. In a surprising twist, Alexander, acknowledging their genuine bond, magnanimously grants them marriage. This act of self-command is lauded by Hephestion, who acknowledges Alexander's ability to conquer personal desires.
Final Thoughts
As the play concludes, Alexander prepares to resume his military campaigns with newfound resolve. His remark that a man unfit to master his own emotions should not aspire to rule the world reinforces the theme of self-control. Lyly's "Campaspe," through its elegant language and philosophical debate, presents an enduring question: should one strive to exist within the earthly realm or transcend it? This tension, alongside the play's intricate verbal sparring and rich character dynamics, makes "Campaspe" a thought-provoking exploration of love, power, and human ambition.
Critical Evaluation
John Lyly's "Campaspe" masterfully employs the euphuistic prose for which he is renowned, crafting a script that emphasizes balance and rhetorical elegance. The play is less about action and more about the dynamic interplay of ideas, with characters like Diogenes delivering incisive quips, such as the memorable exchange with Alexander on contentment: "Unlearn to covet." These exchanges bring to the fore the philosophical undercurrents that define "Campaspe," questioning the nature of existence and desire.
The slender plot centers on Alexander's internal conflict between his attraction to Campaspe and his role as a mighty conqueror. The true essence of "Campaspe" lies in its rich dialogues and the intellectual tug-of-war between living for worldly pleasures versus striving for higher ideals. Lyly's nuanced portrayal of Alexander's choices and Apelles' artistic passions offers a duality that resonates with the Elizabethan sensibilities of the era.
Ultimately, "Campaspe" stands as a testament to Lyly's skill in combining wit and wisdom, inviting audiences to reflect on the timeless dilemmas of love, ambition, and the quest for self-mastery. Through its balance of humor, romance, and philosophical inquiry, the play continues to engage and inspire, affirming Lyly's impact on the evolution of English literature.
