Pierre Corneille El Cid

Pierre Corneille

(5 stars; 1 review)

El Cid by Pierre Corneille is a classic play adapted by Ranjit Bolt. Corneille, one of France's three outstanding Classical dramatists, tells the story of the younger Cid, a self-indulgent, love-smitten courtier in 11th-century Spain. When duty calls, he rises to become Spain's greatest hero.

This adaptation features a star-studded cast, including James Purefoy as the Cid and Indira Varma as Ximena. The play explores the ethical and emotional dilemmas faced by the legendary champion-to-be and his intended, examining themes of love, honour, and the choices made under intense duress.

Bolt's translation is both daring and faithful, observing the conventions of 17th-century French drama while dynamizing the language and style.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.