Cromwell (tragedy)

Cromwell is a historical tragedy by Victor Hugo, first published in 1827. It is most notable for its extensive preface, a manifesto of sorts for the Romantic movement in French literature and theatre. While the play itself is rarely performed due to its extreme length and structural unconventionality, the preface holds significant literary and historical importance.

The play focuses on Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of England in the mid-17th century. Hugo aims to depict Cromwell as a complex figure, a blend of revolutionary fervor and personal ambition. The plot, while sprawling and difficult to summarize concisely, encompasses Cromwell's political machinations, his personal relationships, and the wider societal and religious tensions of the era.

The preface to Cromwell is where Hugo lays out his vision for a new type of drama, one that breaks free from the constraints of classical French tragedy and embraces a wider range of emotions, characters, and settings. He argues for the "grotesque" to be included alongside the "sublime," advocating for a more realistic and complex portrayal of human nature. The preface champions liberty in art, rejecting the unities of time, place, and action that had long been considered essential elements of good drama. It also asserts the importance of historical accuracy and local color in theatrical productions.

The impact of the Cromwell preface was profound. It became a rallying cry for Romantic writers and artists, influencing not only French literature and theatre but also wider European artistic movements. It paved the way for a new generation of playwrights who sought to create more daring, innovative, and emotionally resonant works. While the play Cromwell itself has largely faded into obscurity, its preface remains a vital and influential text in the history of literary theory.