The Tragedy of Mariam

The Tragedy of Mariam, Fair Queen of Jewry recounts actual historical events surrounding the execution of Mariam, the second wife of Herod the Great. Written by Elizabeth Cary, the Viscountess Falkland, this five-act play published in 1613 is unique in several ways—chiefly, in that it is the first English-language play authored and published by a woman. Multiple tragedies occur in the drama, which falls into the genre of a Senecan revenge tragedy. It’s also a “closet drama,” meaning that it was more likely read individually or by a small group than performed on stage. Though the play experienced minimal fame for centuries after its publication, there has been a resurgence of interest in it since 1970, due in part to its reflections on feminist issues, misogyny, and class struggle.

Plot Summary

The Tragedy of Mariam takes place in Jerusalem during a single day in 29 BCE. Rumors have spread throughout the city that Herod the Great, who has ruled as the King of Judea for nine years, has been executed. He traveled to Rome to answer charges before Caesar Augustus (Octavius) that he murdered two men who rightfully should have ascended the Jewish throne before him. Mariam’s mother Alexandra, who is the mother and daughter of the deceased men, had previously brought these charges before Caesar’s predecessor (Mark Anthony, now more commonly spelled “Antony”) and has since renewed them.

The play begins with Mariam expressing her inner conflict—she loves and hates Herod simultaneously. Her mother, Alexandra, berates her mixed emotions, saying she should be completely thrilled at the news of Herod’s death. She warns that had Herod lived, he would have found a reason to kill Mariam so he could institute his son Antipater as his successor.

Salome, Herod’s sister, confronts the two women and accuses them of plotting against her because of Herod’s death. Mariam and Salome argue bitterly, with Mariam challenging Salome’s past misdeeds and family heritage. Once alone, Salome seethes with rage and plots revenge against Mariam. She reviews the damning truths she knows about her enemies—Mariam, her husband Constabarus, and Herod’s counselor Sohemus. She is helpless to use what she knows unless Herod is alive. Meanwhile, Constabarus sees Salome conversing with her would-be lover Silleus and engages her in a conversation meant to rebuild their relationship, but which inflames her hatred of him.

Believing Herod is dead, several of the players act upon their concealed desires. Herod’s brother Pheroras marries his sweetheart Graphina, despite Salome criticizing her low birth. Constabarus brings the sons of Herod’s enemy Babus out of hiding. Herod’s first wife, Doris, and her son Antipater seek an opportunity to insert themselves into the process of selecting the new king. Silleus challenges Constabarus to a duel by sword. Much the superior swordsman, Constabarus seriously wounds Silleus but spares his life, taking him to his own home to recover.

As Salome berates Pheroras for marrying Graphina, news comes to them by the High Priest Annanell that Herod is alive and has returned to Jerusalem. Salome rejoices, perceiving this as the opportunity to put her various plots into motion. Pheroras is devastated, knowing his brother will punish him. Salome promises to help Pheroras keep his new wife, provided he tells Herod that Constabarus has secretly protected Babus’s sons.

Sohemus breaks the news to Mariam that Herod is alive. She decides she will confront him over the deaths of her brother and grandfather. Sohemus tries to persuade her to temper her mood, but she remains adamant.

Herod returns to his throne in the happiest possible mood and immediately asks for Mariam. While he waits, he decides to deal with Pheroras, having already heard from Salome that his brother has married Graphina. However, Pheroras distracts him by telling him that Constabarus concealed the sons of Babus. Herod instantly orders the arrest and execution of Constabarus and the fugitives.

Now somewhat distressed, Herod greets Mariam, who comes before him in mourning clothes with a downcast expression. Herod works diligently to lighten her mood and renew their relationship. However, Mariam counters with his murder of her brother and grandfather and refuses to accept his explanations of their deaths. A butler enters with a serving of wine. Herod asks what it is, to which the butler responds that it is a love potion Mariam has prepared for the king. Immediately distrustful, Herod demands the butler explain more fully. Using the script Salome has given him, the butler implies that Mariam prepared the wine after finding out Sohemus was to kill her if Herod did not return. Enraged, Herod orders the death of Sohemus. He then turns on Mariam and condemns her as well. She does not defend herself and is taken away to be executed.

Almost immediately, Herod expresses remorse. The butler is also guilt-ridden and decides to take his life. Salome joins her brother to make certain he follows through with the death of Mariam. He gives her permission to order the execution, which she does. Herod then changes his mind and orders that Mariam be spared. However, Salome’s wiles eventually win him over, and he does not stop the execution.

Alone and waiting to die, Mariam reflects on her judgment and its results. She is joined by a triumphant Doris, who announces that she will see to it that Mariam’s children will likewise face execution.

The messenger Nuntio carries the news of her beheading to Herod. Clearly still ambivalent, he tries in various ways to disbelieve what has occurred until he realizes he cannot deny what he has done, and that it was a mistake.