"The Mad Lover" by John Fletcher and Francis Beaumont is a captivating Jacobean tragicomedy that explores themes of love, madness, and redemption. Set in the court of a fictional ruler, the play follows the story of Prince Palador, whose descent into madness threatens to tear apart the kingdom. At the heart of the drama is the Prince's obsessive love for Princess Eroclea, a love that drives him to madness and irrational behavior. As the plot unfolds, the characters grapple with the consequences of their actions, including betrayal, forgiveness, and ultimately, redemption. Fletcher and Beaumont's skillful blend of comedy and tragedy creates a rich tapestry of human emotion, inviting audiences to reflect on the complexities of love and mental illness. Through its vivid characters and poetic language, "The Mad Lover" offers a timeless exploration of the human condition, reminding us of the fragility of the mind and the enduring power of love.

The Mad Lover, a Tragi-Comedy is a captivating anthology that showcases the exquisite blend of tragedy and comedy intrinsic to early 17th-century English drama. Edited by the illustrious duo John Fletcher and Francis Beaumont, the collection brings together an array of works that exemplify the era's literary diversity and stylistic profundity. Noteworthy for its exploration of themes such as love, madness, and the complexities of human emotion, the anthology stands out for its adept manipulation of genre, seamlessly weaving together elements of wit and pathos. The inclusion of standout pieces within this compilation underscores the anthologys significance in illustrating the evolution of dramatic literature during this period. The editors, John Fletcher and Francis Beaumont, were pivotal figures in the Jacobean era, contributing significantly to the development of English drama. Their collaboration is noted for its exceptional harmony and creativity, synthesizing varied literary traditions and influences. The anthology reflects the socio-political and cultural milieu of early 17th-century England, offering insights into contemporary attitudes towards love, societal norms, and individual psyche. The diverse backgrounds of Fletcher and Beaumont enrich the collection, providing a multifaceted perspective that enhances the readers understanding of Jacobean drama. The Mad Lover, a Tragi-Comedy is recommended for readers keen on exploring the rich tapestry of early modern English literature. This anthology is not only a testament to the ingenious partnership of Fletcher and Beaumont but also an invaluable resource for those interested in the interplay between comedy and tragedy. Delving into this collection offers a rare opportunity to engage with the dynamic and evolving narrative forms of the period, making it a must-read for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of literary history. The anthology serves as a platform for intellectual inquiry and discussion, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of Jacobean theatrical expression.

A lively introduction to opera, from the Renaissance to the twenty-first century There are few art forms as visceral and emotional as opera -- and few that are as daunting for newcomers. A Mad Love offers a spirited and indispensable tour of opera's eclectic past and present, beginning with Monteverdi's L'Orfeo in 1607, generally considered the first successful opera, through classics like Carmen and La Boheme, and spanning to Brokeback Mountain and The Death of Klinghoffer in recent years. Musician and critic Vivien Schweitzer acquaints readers with the genre's most important composers and some of its most influential performers, recounts its long-standing debates, and explains its essential terminology. Today, opera is everywhere, from the historic houses of major opera companies to movie theaters and public parks to offbeat performance spaces and our earbuds. A Mad Love is an essential book for anyone who wants to appreciate this living, evolving art form in all its richness.

Mad Love has been acknowledged an undisputed classic of the surrealist movement since its first publication in France in 1937. Its adulation of love as both mystery and revelation places it in the most abiding of literary traditions, but its stormy history and technical difficulty have prevented it from being translated into English until now. "There has never been any forbidden fruit. Only temptation is divine," writes André Breton, leader of the surrealists in Paris in the 1920s and '30s. Mad Love is dedicated to defying "the widespread opinion that love wears out, like the diamond, in its own dust." Celebrating breton's own love and lover, the book unveils the marvelous in everyday encounters and the hidden depths of ordinary things.