Psyché (play)

Psyché is a five-act tragicomedy by Pierre Corneille, first performed in 1671. It is based on the myth of Cupid and Psyche as recounted in Apuleius' The Golden Ass. The play was a machine play or pièce à machines, meaning it featured elaborate stage machinery and special effects, as it was commissioned by King Louis XIV for performance at the Palais des Tuileries.

Authorship: While Corneille is credited as the primary author, Philippe Quinault contributed the lyrics for the songs and ballets included in the production. Jean-Baptiste Lully composed the music. Molière was originally involved in the project, but his contributions were largely superseded by Corneille and Quinault, though some scholars suggest traces of his influence remain in the comedic elements.

Synopsis: The play tells the story of Psyche, whose beauty rivals that of Venus, inciting the goddess's jealousy. Venus commands Cupid to punish Psyche, but instead, he falls in love with her. He takes her to a hidden palace and visits her only at night, forbidding her from looking upon his face. Urged by her envious sisters, Psyche disobeys and gazes upon Cupid, accidentally wounding him and breaking their bond. The play follows Psyche's arduous journey to win back Cupid's love, enduring trials set by Venus, and ultimately achieving immortality and union with Cupid.

Significance: Psyché is notable as a landmark work in French theatre, combining elements of tragedy, comedy, opera, and ballet. It exemplifies the lavish spectacles favored by Louis XIV and his court. The play’s success demonstrated the potential for integrating music and spectacle into dramatic performances. Its retelling of the classic myth reflects the interest in classical themes prevalent in the era. The collaborative nature of its creation highlights the complex dynamics of artistic production within the French court.