Scene from Molieres play, Amphitryon
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Scene from Molieres play, Amphitryon
Scene from Molieres play, Amphitryon, first performed in 1668. It was based on a Latin comedy by Plautus. In it, Amphitryon goes off to war, leaving his wife Alcmene at home. Jupiter appears disguised as Amphitryon and seduces Alcmene. As a result she gives birth to Hercules.
17th century
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Media ID 14400517
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1668 Comedy Deception Disguise Disguised Gods Jupiter Latin Lookalike Moliere Mythological Mythology Plautus Seduce Seduction Transformation Amphitryon Myth
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 17th-century print depicts a scene from Molière's renowned play, "Amphitryon," first performed in Paris in 1668. Based on the ancient Latin comedy by Plautus, the play tells the intriguing story of Amphitryon, a warrior who leaves his wife Alcmene at home while he goes off to war. Unbeknownst to Alcmene, Jupiter, the king of the gods, appears in the disguise of Amphitryon, seducing her in a deceptive transformation. As a result of this divine encounter, Alcmene gives birth to the legendary hero Hercules. Molière's adaptation of Plautus' comedy was a significant success during the French Baroque period, reflecting the court's fascination with classical mythology and the gods' capricious behavior. In this scene, the lookalike Amphitryon, disguised as Jupiter, is shown tenderly embracing Alcmene, who is oblivious to the true identity of her lover. The subtle interplay of light and shadow, as well as the intricate details of the period costumes, further enhance the allure and enchantment of this mythological tale. This print is an exquisite reminder of the enduring appeal of Molière's "Amphitryon," a work that continues to captivate audiences with its exploration of deception, transformation, and the power of the gods in human affairs.
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