Casanova in Bolzano

Sándor Márai · 1900–1989 · Hungary

Originally Vendégjáték Bolzanóban (Hungarian)

Why it matters

Fresh from his escape out of Venice's prisons, Casanova stops in Bolzano and is drawn into a three-day duel of wit and vanity with the aging Duke who shares his lost love. Márai turns the legendary seducer into a philosopher of pride's expiration date.

At a glance

A dialogue-driven chamber drama in Márai's familiar register, less demanding than his interior monologues.