First published 1735
In the kingdom of Sicilia, King Leontes is consumed by a sudden, irrational jealousy towards his wife Hermione and best friend Polixenes. Convinced of their infidelity, Leontes orders Hermione imprisoned and Polixenes banished. As Hermione gives birth, Leontes' rage reaches a fever pitch, with tragic consequences. Years later, a chance encounter in a distant land offers the chance for reconciliation, if only the king can overcome his pride. This late-career Shakespeare play masterfully blends tragedy, comedy, and romance, exploring the power of the human heart to both destroy and redeem.
Genres: drama, romance, historical-fiction, tragedy
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, redemption
Setting: Sicily, Italy
92 pages · Paperback
Content warnings: death