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Book Review of Amadeus : A Play by Peter Shaffer

Amadeus : A Play by Peter Shaffer
theatregal86 avatar reviewed on + 9 more book reviews


Excellent play. May be a bit hard to read for some, but once it's grasped it becomes much easier.

The theory that Salieri had something to do with the untimely death of the composer Mozart is explored, while at the same time revealing uncomfortable truths we all face as human beings. Through his illustration of clashing character personalities, the placing of music, and the human desire to succeed, Shaffer confronts the frustration we face when we feel our efforts are overlooked in spite of any sacrifices we have made to accomplish our goals and achievements.

I personally have not seen this performed on stage, but he did write the screenplay for the film version, which is a unified work of art.