Shelley

Synopsis

England, early 19th century

Percy Bysshe Shelley, a radical poet and thinker, finds himself at odds with the staid conventions of English society. Shelley by Ann Jellicoe captures the last eleven years of this iconic poet’s life, from his expulsion from Oxford to his tumultuous marriages and his tragic death in Italy. As Shelley fervently pursues his Utopian ideals, he faces personal and societal conflicts that shape his journey and legacy.

The play, subtitled “The Idealist”, explores themes of revolution, idealism, and the clash between personal vision and societal norms. Jellicoe’s narrative is both dramatic and reflective, portraying Shelley not just as a historical figure but as a symbol of the enduring struggle between visionary ideals and the harsh realities of life. Through his interactions with key figures like Mary Shelley, Lord Byron, and his first wife Harriet, the play paints a rich tapestry of personal and political upheaval.