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Magda: A Play in Four Acts

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About This Book

The play follows a once-independent woman who returns to her conservative provincial household and, over the course of a single day, sets in motion confrontations that expose family pride, social hypocrisy, and bitter generational clashes. Her outspoken defiance unsettles her stern father and provokes gossip among neighbors, while a thoughtful clergyman tries to mediate between duty and compassion. Scenes move through parlor and domestic settings, building to a rapid, tragic climax that forces characters to confront competing claims of honor, freedom, and moral responsibility. Themes include the friction between modern individualism and entrenched tradition, the cost of reputation, and the mercy or rigidity of communal judgment.

About the Author

Sudermann, Hermann portrait

Hermann Sudermann

Hermann Sudermann was a prominent German playwright and novelist, known for his contributions to the literary scene in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works often explore themes of morality, social issues, and the complexities of human relationships. Among his notable plays is "Magda," which delves into the struggles of a woman caught between societal expectations and personal desires. Sudermann's writing is characterized by its emotional depth and psychological insight, making him a significant figure in the realm of German literature. His diverse body of work includes dramas, one-act plays, and short stories, reflecting his versatility as an author.

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