Elizabeth Cary. "The Tragedy of Mariam". Reading Questions

  1. The plot of the play may be difficult to follow. Read the introduction before youstart reading the play.
  2. In Act 1, Scene 1, line 10 Mariam says, "One object yields both grief and joy." Explain what cause her both grief and joy at the news of Herod's death. What is the cause of her hatred for him?
  3. Now that Herod is presumed dead, what problems and obstacles does Mariam face, especially in regard to Salome and Doris?
  4. Why Mariam and Salome not like each other? What do they say is wrong with the other?
  5. Salome wants to divorce her husband, but she can't. What specific objections does she have agaisnt the divorce laws in Judea?
  6. Why do you think Salome wants to divorce her husband?
  7. Can you find any positive characteristics in Salome as a "modern" woman? Remember that she lives in a very patriarchal society.
  8. How is Constabarus in trouble? What has he done that might make Herod angry?
  9. Why did Doris and her son Antipater come to the city after hearing the news of Herod's death? (Act 2, Scene 3).
  10. Sileus and Constabarus argue and fight over Salome. Constabarus tries to convince Sileus that she is not worth fighting for. What's wrong with Salome, according to Constabarus? How does the fight end?
  11. How do Pheroras and Salome react when they find out the Herod is not dead? Why is Salome happy? What concerns does Pheroras have? What plans does Salome have for Mariam? (Act 3, Scene 2, lines 80-105).
  12. In Act 3, Scene 3 the Chorus exhorts Mariam to behave as a "good wife". Provide some examples.
  13. How does Mariam react to the news that Herod is not dead?
  14. What comments does the Chorus make about maria's behavior? How should a wife behave, according to the Chorus?
  15. In Act 4, Scene 1 we are told of Herod's opinion and attitude toward Mariam? Provide a short summary.
  16. Act 4, Scene 3 is the meeting between Herod and Mariam afer his return. How does the meeting go? Do youthink Mariam is justified in her accusations fo Herod? Why? IS Herod's love for Mariam enough to keep them together?
  17. What false accusations are there against Mariam?
  18. Herod is not sure whether Mariam should die or not? Why is he confused? Why does he think she should not die? Why does he think that she should die.
  19. How does Salome convince Herod that Mariam should die?
  20. Some critics have said that Herod is driven to murder and madness because of his obsession with Mariam's body, her beauty. Do you agree? Support your opinion.
  21. How does Herod react to the news that Mariam has been executed?
Be prepared to discuss and of these major themes in the play.
  1. Subjugation and subordination of women in marriage.
  2. Female obedience to male authority.
  3. Criticism of patriarchal attitudes.
  4. Female resistance to patriarchal tyranny.
  5. Possessivenes and cruelty in marriage.