Vittorio Alfieri, a towering figure in the realm of tragedy during the late 18th century, crafted nineteen tragedies between 1775 and 1786. His works, rooted in classical traditions, embody the Aristotelian unities of time, place, and action, focusing intensely on the protagonist's journey to their inevitable fate. Alfieri drew subjects from antiquity, the Bible, and European history, infusing well-known tales with his unique perspective, while highlighting timeless themes of virtue clashing with oppressive tyranny.

Structure and Themes of Alfieri's Tragedies

Alfieri's tragedies underwent a meticulous process of composition involving three stages: structuring the narrative into five acts, composing prose dialogue, and finally, versification. Despite adhering to classical theatrical norms, Alfieri modified the events to serve his artistic vision, thus imparting originality to familiar narratives. His protagonists, paragons of virtue, are depicted as noble figures who oppose and ultimately fall victim to tyrannical forces.

His tragedies are unified by a central theme: the struggle against different manifestations of tyranny. In some works, such as the so-called tragedies of liberty, the focus is on political oppression. For instance, "Virginia," "Timoleon," "The Conspiracy of the Pazzi," "The First Brutus," and "The Second Brutus" portray the protagonists' battles against despotism, with acts of tyrannicide often depicted as righteous and necessary.

Virginia: A Drama of Virtue and Rebellion

"Virginia," a tragedy celebrated for its political undertones, draws from Roman history to tell the tale of Virginia, a virtuous young woman caught in the schemes of Appius, the corrupt chief of the Decemvirs. After Appius's foil, Marcus, claims Virginia as his former slave, a desperate struggle ensues, climaxing in Virginius killing his own daughter to preserve her honor. This act of ultimate virtue stirs the Roman populace to rise against Appius and his tyranny.

Alfieri utilizes the story to critique the nobility's abuses while upholding the classical ideal of austere heroism. Although the virtuous protagonists may appear somewhat stylized, they embody the moral integrity essential for challenging and inspiring change.

Timoleon: A Tale of Fraternal Conflict

"Timoleon," inspired by Plutarch's "Parallel Lives," presents a complex narrative centered on the protagonist's moral struggle against his brother Timophanes, who seeks absolute power in Corinth. Through intense dialogues, the play explores conflicting ideals, with Timoleon's commitment to liberty clashing against familial bonds. The tragedy deepens as Timophanes, on the brink of tyranny, forgives his adversaries before his demise, illustrating a poignant reconciliation with his own humanity.

The Conspiracy of the Pazzi: Humanizing the Republican Hero

Set against the backdrop of 15th century Florence, "The Conspiracy of the Pazzi" explores Raymond's revolt against the Medici's rule. Married to Bianca, sister to his enemies, Raymond grapples with his role as both husband and conspirator, ultimately choosing suicide over defeat. Alfieri injects a new pathos into the genre by highlighting Raymond's internal conflict, thus humanizing the republican hero amidst the political turmoil.

Raymond's terse declaration, "The traitor . . . is . . . the vanquished," encapsulates the brevity and emotional intensity characteristic of Alfieri's style.

Phillip II: The Double Tyrant

In "Phillip II," Alfieri crafts a dual-layered tyranny embodied by King Philip, whose oppressive reign extends to both the state and his own family. The virtuous Carlos and Isabella, trapped within Philip's sinister machinations, choose death over subjugation. Alfieri's deft handling of their entrapment showcases his matured theatrical technique, with hate as the unrelenting force driving the narrative.

This tragedy, carefully revised for its final edition, reflects Alfieri's matured craftsmanship, aligning it with his later works, despite its early origins.

Antigone: Redefining a Mythical Heroine

In "Antigone," Alfieri breathes new life into a classical myth, transforming the titular character into a...