Troilus and Cressida

Characterized by its duality of tone, this problem play oscillates between bawdy comedy and dark tragedy. It intertwines elements from Homer’s Iliad, exploring the mythological backdrop of the Trojan War and its prominent figures, while also drawing on Chaucer’s Troilus and Criseyde to depict the poignant love story of Troilus and a Trojan woman. This blend of epic themes and romantic entanglements creates a rich narrative that reflects on love, war, and the complexities of human relationships.