The Marquis de Sade's Stratagem of Love

Book excerpt: A revival of the classical style in the comedy genre. A two-act play for at least five actors (2m, 3f) based on the short story "The Love Stratagem" by Marquis de Sade. Almost all the lines, plot, intrigues and characters except for Villeblanche were created by the author. So much so that the play does not contradict the style of the Marquis de Sade, either literally or intellectually. It is a comedy reminiscent of Molière, but with a Sadean taste. A woman disguised as a man is a typical Shakespearean theme. Bedrettin brought this theme into the work with the same sense of humor. The characteristics of the play include the use of double entendre, cross-dressing, comic love scenes, physical seduction, cynicism and other forms of daring language. There are no sets or props in the play except for chairs. Therefore, it has a low cost and is suitable for touring. For those who want to rediscover classic comedy with a modern touch.