A King's Daughter: A Tragedy in Verse

Name: A King's Daughter: A Tragedy in Verse
Author: John Masefield

By John Masefield

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About This Book

Set in the royal palace of Samaria, the verse tragedy stages political and religious conflict around the foreign queen and her ill king as tension mounts over a refused vineyard and an impending feast. Ambitious military captains and prophets conspire to seize power, plotting assassination and anointment to overthrow the ruling family while rival factions mobilize support. The drama traces schemes, betrayals, and the collision of personal grief and public duty, with scenes of counsel, espionage, and sacrificial zeal. Themes include the corrupting pursuit of authority, the clash of belief systems, and the human costs of factional violence.

About the Author

John Masefield

John Masefield was an English poet, novelist, and playwright, known for his vivid storytelling and lyrical style. Born in 1878, he gained prominence in the early 20th century, contributing significantly to English literature. Masefield's works often explore themes of adventure, the sea, and human experience. His notable works include the narrative poem "A Ballad of John Silver," which draws inspiration from Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island," and the poignant war poem "Gallipoli," reflecting on the horrors of conflict. Masefield served as Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1930 until his death in 1967, leaving a lasting legacy in the literary world.