William Shakespeare
Cymbeline
language
(Digireads.com April 1, 2004)
Surrounded by historical myth and intrigue, Shakespeare's "Cymbeline" weaves an elaborate tale of palatial envy and power. Cymbeline, King of Britain, commands the wedlock of his lovely daughter Imogen to Cloten, the son of the Queen by a former husband. With her passionate eyes set upon the poor yet heroic Posthumus, Imogen refuses. Disgusted at the prospect of his daughter marrying a lower class citizen, Cymbeline banishes Posthumus from Britain. With death and deceit between them, Imogen and Posthumus tread international waters in an attempt to be reunited. First performed as early as 1611, Shakespeare's "Cymbeline" remains a highly playful yet tragic depiction of young love.