The Siege of Rhodes: Analysis of Major Characters
The Siege of Rhodes is a historical event marked by complex character dynamics and themes of love and honor. Central to the narrative are Alphonso, the young Duke of Sicily, and his wife Ianthe, who navigate their relationship amidst the turmoil of a siege. Alphonso's loyalty and bravery are tested as he fights to protect Rhodes and his beloved Ianthe, while Ianthe's devotion not only to her husband but also to her values enables her to intercede with the enemy sultan, Solyman II. Solyman, known as Solyman the Magnificent, embodies a contrasting perspective, valuing virtue and love over mere military prowess, which adds depth to his interactions with both Ianthe and his own jealous queen, Roxalana.
Roxalana's character illustrates the emotional complexities of power and jealousy as she grapples with her feelings towards Solyman and Ianthe. The brave grand master of Rhodes, Villerius, further emphasizes the themes of honor and love, standing alongside Alphonso in defense of their beliefs. The interplay between these major characters highlights the intricate balance of personal emotions and broader political tensions during the siege. This rich tapestry of relationships and motivations offers a compelling exploration of human resilience and moral integrity in the face of adversity.
The Siege of Rhodes: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Sir William Davenant
First published: 1663
Genre: Play
Locale: The fortress at Rhodes and the nearby coast of Caria
Plot: Historical
Time: 1522
Alphonso, the young Duke of Sicily, whose life is shaped by his love for his wife Ianthe and by his sense of honor. His fleeting jealousy of the attentions lavished by the sultan on Ianthe does not impair the happiness of his marriage, and he fights valiantly to save his wife and Rhodes.
Ianthe, his beautiful wife, who bravely travels from Sicily to join her husband in Rhodes. Captured by the Turks, she wins the sultan's admiration with her fidelity and devotion to her husband. She thus can later intercede with him on behalf of the besieged island. She is as conscious as Alphonso is of the value of honor, and she encourages his refusal to fly to Sicily under the sultan's protection.
Solyman II (SAHL-uh-muhn), called Solyman the Magnificent, the magnanimous sultan of the Ottoman Empire. He values virtue and love above military victory and offers aid to Ianthe and her husband. He contrasts the patience and calm of the Christian wife with the fury directed at him by his beloved sultana and contrives to win her back by letting her witness Ianthe's devotion to Alphonso.
Roxalana (ROKS-ah-lan-ah), his tempestuous queen. Jealous for the future of her son, the sultan's younger child, she rails at her husband and passionately resents his favors to Ianthe. She is, however, so much touched by Ianthe's patience and love that she arranges Ianthe's reunion with Alphonso. She is herself happily reconciled with the sultan, who welcomes this sign of tenderness in her.
Villerius, Philip Villiers de L'Isle Adam (vihl-LEHRee-ews), the brave grand master of Rhodes, another upholder of “love and honor.”
Pyrrhus (PIHR-uhs), a Persian general.