Berenice (Racine)

Performed in 1670, the five acts of Berenice, by the French playwright Racine, are based on a phrase by the historian Suetonius: «Titus, who passionately loved Berenice, and who had even, it was said, promised to marry her, expelled her from Rome, despite her and in spite of her, from the first days of his Empire. The simplicity of this theme is what most attracted Racine: Titus condemns Berenice in the name of Rome and a mythical legality. Eight days after the premiere of Berenice, Molière's company premieres Tito and Berenice by Racine's great rival, Corneille. Corneille's work was a heroic comedy, in which the outcome annulled the dilemma between duty and love, introducing will as a decisive element. The possible love (although rejected by the will) of "Tito and Berenice" It is an impossible love in "Berenice". Berenice understands that love can only continue if the two lovers never see each other again and she makes the heroic resolution of separation.

Argument

• Act I: Antíoco confesses to his friend the love he feels towards Berenice. This, which ignores him, feels happy at his next wedding with Tito, who has just been appointed Emperor GAMBA

• Act II: Tito recognizes that you cannot marry Berenice because it is not Roman. Don't dare talk to her.

• Act III: At the request of Titus, Antiochus explains to Berenice that the emperor has decided to separate from it.

• Act IV: Tito confirms Berenice's position. Berenice thinks of dying.

• Act V: Berenice just accepted Tito's decision. He will return to Palestine and reign in his domains.