Jean Cocteau (1889–1963)

Abstract

Cocteau’s Orpheus is a restatement of the ancient myth which imbued so many cultures with a sense of mystery and awe. In Cocteau’s nimble fingers, however, the tragic Greek tale became a humorous and disturbing drama, focusing not on an ideal loving couple but on an ‘infernal ménage’. The play, replete with puns and witticisms, introduces viewers and readers into a magical and mysterious world of cleverly manipulated symbols and images.