Abraham sacrifiant

Innovatory Calvinist drama by Théodore de Bèze, based on Genesis 22. First performed by Lausanne schoolboys in 1550, this ‘tragédie française’ (which none the less owes much to the medieval mystery play) marries didacticism and drama. Like Abraham, Bèze suffered exile for his faith, and preaches through his characters the necessity of obedience to God and trust in His promises; dressing Satan as a monk, he satirizes Catholic worldliness and pride. The freshness and simplicity of the verse, the affectionate portrayal of the old couple, and the striking pathos of the scene of the sacrifice, raise the piece above mere sermonizing.

[Michael Heath]