The Marriage of Figaro

Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais (1732–1799) was a French playwright, inventor, musician, financier, and politician who played a key role in 18th-century literature. He was born in Paris, the son of a watchmaker, and initially worked in that profession. He invented an innovative clock mechanism, which caught the attention of the royal court. His skills and ambition led him to rise in society, adopting the surname "Beaumarchais" and gaining the favor of the aristocracy.

In addition to his dramatic work, he was involved in politics and trade. He played a significant role in supplying arms to the American colonists fighting for independence. In literature, he is best known for his three plays about Figaro: The Barber of Seville (1775), The Marriage of Figaro (1784), and The Wicked Mother (1792).

The Story of The Marriage of Figaro

The Marriage of Figaro (La Folle Journée, ou Le Mariage de Figaro) was written in 1778, but its theatrical premiere did not take place until 27 April 1784 at the Comédie-Française in Paris. The delay was due to difficulties in obtaining permission to perform the play, as its satirical nature and criticism of the aristocracy raised concerns with the censors.

The work was published in 1785 and immediately gained great popularity. In 1786 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte adapted the drama into an opera called Le nozze di Figaro, which is still considered one of the masterpieces of comic opera.

The content and message of art

The Marriage of Figaro is a sequel to The Barber of Seville and presents the adventures of Figaro, who plans to marry his beloved Susanna. The intrigue is complicated by Count Almaviva, who wants to seduce Susanna, despite being married himself. Many comedic and satirical themes show the hypocrisy of the aristocracy and undermine traditional social hierarchies. Beaumarchais skillfully exposes the injustices of the era, contributing to the spread of the ideas of the Enlightenment.

Acceptance of drama

The play was hugely controversial. Louis XVI initially banned it, considering it dangerous and perverse. However, thanks to the support of influential figures, including Queen Marie Antoinette, the premiere was finally allowed. The performance was a stunning success – the audience was delighted with its brilliant dialogue, situational comedy and sharp criticism of the aristocracy.

Some historians believe that The Marriage of Figaro foreshadowed the French Revolution because it showed social tensions and gave a voice to the lower classes. The figure of Figaro became a symbol of cunning and courage in the fight against the privileges of the nobility.

The meaning of the work

The Marriage of Figaro remains one of the most important dramatic works of the 18th century. Its influence extends beyond literature – it has inspired composers, directors and politicians. With its masterful satire and universal themes, the play continues to be performed on stages around the world, reminding us of the fight for equality and social justice.

New edition

First Polish edition Empty Day or Figaro's Marriage was published in Warsaw as early as 1786. Our edition is based on the translation by Tadeusz Boy-Żeleński. It is illustrated with graphics from the French edition of 1785. The Marriage of Figaro will be hand-bound in full leather, with a case and set in the GLC Baskerville font, a version of the fonts used by de Beaumarchais himself.

The book will be available in our bookstore in March 2025. Readers who purchase a pre-sale copy will receive a personalized edition.