Key Tragedies:
* Le Cid (The Cid): This 1637 play, a tragicomedy, is arguably Corneille's most famous work. It tells the story of Rodrigue, a young man forced to choose between love and honor, ultimately leading to the deaths of his father and his beloved's father.
* Horace: This 1640 tragedy explores themes of patriotism, family duty, and the clash between personal desires and political necessity. It follows Horace, a Roman soldier who must fight against his own brother in a war between Rome and Alba.
* Cinna: This 1640 play is considered one of Corneille's finest works. It portrays the complex psychological struggle of a Roman emperor who must decide whether to pardon a potential assassin.
* Polyeucte: This 1643 tragedy is based on the story of a Roman soldier who converts to Christianity and is willing to die for his faith.
* Andromaque: This 1667 play follows Andromache, the widow of Hector, after the Trojan War. It explores themes of grief, loss, and the challenges of finding happiness after tragedy.
Other Notable Works:
* Menteur (The Liar): A witty comedy from 1643 that satirizes the art of deception and the consequences of telling lies.
* Don Sanche d'Aragon: A tragicomedy (1650) about the love and honor of a young prince who must overcome challenges to win the hand of a princess.
Key Themes and Style:
* Honor: Corneille's plays often explore the complex concept of honor, particularly in the context of family, love, and war.
* Duty vs. Desire: His characters often face difficult choices between their own desires and the demands of duty, family, or society.
* Classical Influences: Corneille drew heavily on ancient Greek and Roman literature, using their stories and themes as a framework for his own plays.
* Neoclassical Style: He adhered to the conventions of the neoclassical movement, including strict adherence to the "unities" (time, place, and action) and the use of verse.
Legacy and Influence:
Corneille is considered one of the founders of French classical drama and his works have had a lasting impact on French theatre and literature. His exploration of complex characters, his skillful use of language, and his engagement with timeless themes continue to resonate with audiences today. He was a key figure in the development of French tragedy, and his work paved the way for later playwrights such as Racine and Molière.