Scarlet Pimpernel Essay, Research Paper

?They seek him here

They seek him there

Those Frenchies seek him everywhere

Is he in heaven

or is he in hell

That damn elusive Pimpernel!?

-Percy

The Scarlet Pimpernel is a fascinating expose of the inner workings during the French revolution. This realistic play illustrates the terror and victimization of aristocrats, and Royalists like myself. A man of courage and disguise, the Scarlet Pimpernel is an English noble who has very insightful ideas regarding government and society. He risks his life helping French aristocrats escape execution.

?What begins as a dream, may end as a nightmare.? Is spoken by the play?s character Marguerite. This Bougeoisie woman who falls in love with the Scarlet Pimpernel (otherwise known as Percy) makes reference to the irrational violence that has overrun the revolution. Her ex-suitor, Paul, works for Robespierre and has a chance to win a spot on the committee of National Security if he can catch the Scarlet Pimpernel. Paul goes to great lengths to track down the Pimpernel, including blackmailing Marguerite to spy on her friends in England.

The Jacobins in this play are portrayed honestly and their faults made obvious. Characters such as Robespierre and Paul are solemn, power hungry tyrants, sending many to the guillotine. Their malicious attitudes are shown thoughout the play, especially when Paul plans to have the Scarlet Pimpernel killed. He gives his word to Percy that Marguerite shall not be harmed, and moments later makes plans for the imprisonment and execution of Marguerite. It is refreshing and inspiring that the Royalists in the play (counter revolutionaries) who are innocent have some help and hope from the Scarlet Pimpernel during the horrible ordeal.

A true hero, the Scarlet Pimpernel plans to rescue the heir to the throne of France. Percy never once argued for absolute power, the audience is given the impression that he desires France to have a constitutional monarchy similar to England?s. Other characters in this play are worked beautifully into the plot such as Marguerite?s brother, Armond, and the rest of the Scarlet Pimpernel?s men. A dramatic love story filled with sword fighting, the terror of execution, action, humor, and a detailed plot, The Scarlet Pimpernel should be seen by everyone.