Arthur Schnitzler's La Ronde, originally titled Reigen in German, is a fascinating and controversial play written in 1897. While commonly referred to by its French title, it's important to note that Schnitzler himself never used it.
Here's a quick breakdown of the play in English:
Plot:
- It revolves around ten characters from various social backgrounds in Vienna: a soldier, a prostitute, a young woman, a count, an actress, a playwright, a husband, a young wife, a student, and the aforementioned soldier again, closing the circle.
- The play doesn't explicitly show any sexual encounters, but each scene features a pair of characters either just before or after one.
- Through these intimate conversations, Schnitzler explores themes of love, desire, class, power dynamics, and the ephemeral nature of human connection.
- By connecting all characters in a "merry-go-round" fashion, the play emphasizes the interconnectedness of Viennese society, regardless of social standing.
Controversial aspects:
- When initially published in 1900, the play caused a major scandal due to its frank portrayal of sexuality and its disregard for traditional values. It was deemed immoral and even confiscated by authorities.
- Despite the scandal, La Ronde became a significant work of Modernist literature, praised for its innovative structure, psychological depth, and unflinching social commentary.
Accessing the play in English:
- Several English translations of La Ronde are available, both in print and online. Popular options include Nicholas Rudall's and Brian Keith-Smith's versions.
- If you're interested in seeing the play performed, it's still regularly staged around the world.
Additional information:
- The play has been adapted into several films, including the critically acclaimed 1950 French film "La Ronde" directed by Max Ophüls.
- For a deeper understanding of the play, exploring Arthur Schnitzler's life and his other works, particularly those dealing with Viennese society and human psychology, can be helpful.
Arthur Schnitzler: Chronicler of Viennese Decadence
Arthur Schnitzler (1862-1931) was an Austrian author and playwright who captured the spirit of fin-de-siècle Vienna in his insightful and sometimes scandalous works. A medical doctor by profession, Schnitzler brought his keen understanding of human psychology to his writing, delving into the complexities of love, desire, death, and societal mores.
Early Life and Medical Career
Born into a prominent Jewish family in Vienna, Schnitzler initially followed in his father's footsteps, obtaining a medical degree in 1885. He practiced medicine for several years, specializing in laryngology, while nurturing his literary ambitions on the side. This dual career informed his writing, infusing it with a sense of clinical observation and a deep understanding of human frailty.
Literary Breakthrough and Controversial Works
Schnitzler's literary career took off in the early 1890s with the publication of his cycle of one-act plays, Anatol. These witty and urbane satires chronicled the amorous escapades of a charming but shallow playboy, quickly establishing Schnitzler as a rising star of Viennese Modernism.
However, Schnitzler's work often courted controversy. His plays Liebelei (1896) and Reigen (1903) tackled sensitive themes of infidelity and sexual freedom, drawing accusations of immorality and social subversion. Leutnant Gustl (1901), a pioneering stream-of-consciousness novella, was deemed so offensive by the military establishment that Schnitzler was stripped of his reserve officer commission.
Beyond Romance and Scandal
Despite the controversies, Schnitzler's literary output remained prolific and diverse. He explored themes of Jewish identity in Professor Bernhardi (1912), challenged societal expectations of womanhood in Frau Beiseite (1913), and delved into the depths of psychological torment in Therese: Chronik eines Frauenlebens (1903).
Legacy and Literary Significance
Arthur Schnitzler remains a towering figure in Austrian literature. His work offers a vivid and unflinching portrait of Viennese society at the turn of the 20th century, capturing its elegance, decadence, and anxieties. His exploration of taboo subjects and his innovative narrative techniques continue to resonate with readers today, making him a relevant and thought-provoking writer even in the 21st century.
Beyond the Bio: A Taste of Schnitzler's Writing
To truly appreciate Schnitzler's talent, here's a brief excerpt from his novella Dream Story:
"It was a strange evening. Outside, the wind howled, and from time to time the rain lashed against the windows. In my room, however, a great stillness reigned. I sat by the lamp, a book in my hand, but I did not read. My thoughts wandered..."
This opening sets the stage for a dreamlike and introspective journey, showcasing Schnitzler's ability to blend reality and fantasy, and to delve into the inner workings of the human mind.
Whether you're interested in fin-de-siècle Vienna, psychological drama, or simply want to discover a masterful storyteller, Arthur Schnitzler's work is well worth exploring. So, dive into his plays, novellas, and stories, and prepare to be transported to a world of both beauty and darkness, where love, desire, and the complexities of human existence take center stage.
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