Nathan the Wise
by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, adapted by Michael Bloom

Name: Nathan the Wise
Brand: Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, adapted by Michael Bloom
SKU: 9780881459623
Rating: 4.2 (24 reviews)

Highlights

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100 mins

What readers are saying

Readers appreciate the rich themes of tolerance and religious understanding in the play. Many find the translation accessible and the story relevant to contemporary issues. However, some criticisms focus on certain adaptations that stray from the original intent of the play, causing disappointment among those familiar with Lessing's work.

Relevant themes of toleranceSuperb translationBrilliantly writtenThoughtful and entertainingAdaptations can be disappointingTranslation issues noted

Synopsis

Banned by the Nazis and then produced by dozens of German theatres following the end of World War II, NATHAN THE WISE is a timely and exuberant rebuke of prejudice and intolerance.

Written in the Enlightenment Age and set in Jerusalem during the 12th-century reign of Saladin, it features the first positive portrayal of a Muslim leader, a Jewish merchant who comes to his aid, and a Templar Knight in the midst of a change of heart.

Its multicultural characters offer numerous opportunities for multi-ethnic casting.

Michael Bloom’s contemporary adaptation is written in a colloquial style that blows the dust off this former costume drama.

With surprising humor, this version underlines the influence of Shakespearean comedies and THE MERCHANT OF VENICE.

"… quite wonderful … the script makes thoughtful, insightful commentaries about life, religion, and politics that are forever relevant … one of those productions you want to cheer during the curtain call."

—Broadway World

"An affectionate treatment of an 18th century tale … a plot that builds like a classical comedy … a pleasing fairy-tale quality … opens an illuminating window on Jerusalem’s history … a serendipitous meeting ground such as the one NATHAN THE WISE offers arrives like a reassuring refreshment."

—Washington Post

"Lively, humorous, and utterly relevant."

—MD Theatre Guide

"Enlightenment becomes delight in NATHAN THE WISE."

—DC Metro Theatre Guide