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Amadeus

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( 18,838 ratings, 428 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Amadeus by Peter Shaffer is a fascinating dramatisation exploring the intense rivalry between composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri. Set in 18th-century Vienna, it delves into themes of genius, jealousy, and the pursuit of artistic immortality. Through a gripping narrative, the book examines the complex relationship between the two musicians, shedding light on the turbulent emotions and ambitions that defined their interactions.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are captivated by the intense drama of artistic rivalry, the intrigue of historical fiction, and the complex relationship between genius and jealousy. The narrative delves into the envious dynamics between composers and explores deep themes of envy, ambition, and betrayal in the rich setting of 18th-century Vienna. This compelling journey into the world of classical music and the personal vendettas of its greatest figures is certain to appeal to lovers of both arts and culture.

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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a genius, the most brilliant musician the world will ever see. But the court of 18th-century Vienna doesn't recognize his talents - only Antonio Salieri, the Court Composer, does, and he is tortured by what he hears. Seething with rage at the genius of this buffoon and aware of his own mediocrity, Salieri declares war.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

New to Modern Classics

Amadeus by Peter Shaffer presents Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart as a genius, the most brilliant musician the world will ever see. However, the court of eighteenth-century Vienna fails to recognise his talents—only Antonio Salieri, the Court Composer, does, and he is tortured by what he hears.

Seething with rage at the genius of this flippant buffoon and suddenly aware of his own mediocrity, Salieri declares war and sets out to destroy the man he sees as God's instrument on earth.

Peter Shaffer's award-winning play is a rich, exuberant portrayal of a God-like man among mortals, and lives destroyed by envy.

Series: Penguin Modern Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Amadeus by Peter Shaffer receives high praise for its compelling storytelling and dramatic tension. Reviewers highlight its exploration of the rivalry between composers Salieri and Mozart, with particular emphasis on the themes of jealousy and genius. The play's historical backdrop, multifaceted characters, and rich dialogue are frequently commended for creating an engaging theatrical experience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141188898

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 January 2007

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 7.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 91g

Pages: 112

About the Author

Peter Shaffer was born in Liverpool in 1926. Among his plays, The Salt Land (1954), Equus (1973) which won Shaffer the 1975 Tony Award for Best Play as well as the New York Drama Critics Circle Award, Amadeus (1979) which won the Evening Standard Drama Award and the Theatre Critics Award for the London production.

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