Description

FIRST EDITION of this comedy, which premiered on 3 germinal an XI (and not 6 as advertised in the title) at the Théâtre de Vaudeville. Although the portrayal of illustrious characters drew crowds to the theatre, the role played by Voltaire remained secondary and the play focused on the relationship between Richelieu and his wife.

[The authors, Jean B. D. Despres and Jean M. Deschamps] have proved that they know how to give their heroes the appropriate language, and this was no small task. There is wit in the dialogue, the scenes are skilfully conducted and the couplets, almost all situational, are pleasantly phrased. (Courrier des spectaclesNo. 2210 of 4 Germinal Year 11 [25 March 1803], p. 2)

This copy, which bears the handwritten words "direction Duverneuil et Martin" (unidentified) on the title page, as well as a correction and a didascalia in ink, was probably used to stage the play.