Mozart and Salieri (play)

Mozart and Salieri is a one-act play in verse by Alexander Pushkin, written in 1830 and published in 1831 as part of a collection titled Little Tragedies. It explores the themes of envy, genius, and the nature of artistic creation. The play depicts the fictionalized relationship between Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri, and is heavily influenced by contemporary rumors suggesting Salieri poisoned Mozart.

The plot centers around Salieri, a composer who has achieved fame and success through diligent work and dedication. However, he is consumed by envy upon recognizing the effortless genius of Mozart, whom he views as frivolous and undeserving of his extraordinary talent. Salieri grapples with the injustice he perceives in the natural distribution of talent and becomes convinced that Mozart's gift is somehow a mockery of true artistry.

Driven by his envy and a twisted sense of justice, Salieri contemplates poisoning Mozart. He believes that by eliminating Mozart, he would be silencing a talent that diminishes the value of his own accomplishments and the efforts of all other composers. He ultimately executes his plan, poisoning Mozart during a seemingly innocent dinner.

The play concludes with a complex moral ambiguity. Salieri questions whether he is truly a genius, and whether his actions were justified. He leaves the audience to ponder the motivations and consequences of his envy, as well as the profound and often inexplicable nature of artistic genius. The play raises questions about the validity of sacrificing individual morality for the perceived good of art or societal values.

Mozart and Salieri has been highly influential and has been adapted into various forms, including operas and films. It is a significant work in Russian literature and continues to be studied and performed for its exploration of complex human emotions and the philosophical implications of artistic talent.