Troilus and Cressida facts for kids
Troilus and Cressida is a play written by the famous English writer William Shakespeare. It is known as a tragedy, which means it has a sad ending, often with the main characters facing difficult challenges. Shakespeare likely got his ideas for this play from old Greek mythology stories, as well as writings by Homer and Geoffrey Chaucer.
The play was first performed on February 7, 1604. The first time it was printed was in 1609. The story is set during the famous Trojan War and focuses on the love story between two characters, Troilus and Cressida.
Contents
What is Troilus and Cressida About?
This play tells a story from the middle of the Trojan War, a long fight between the Greeks and the people of Troy. Unlike many stories about this war, Shakespeare's play shows a less heroic and more complicated side of the conflict.
The Main Characters
- Troilus: He is a young prince of Troy and a brave warrior. He falls deeply in love with Cressida.
- Cressida: She is a beautiful Trojan woman, the daughter of a priest named Calchas. She promises her love to Troilus.
- Pandarus: He is Cressida's uncle and helps Troilus and Cressida meet and fall in love.
- Hector: The greatest Trojan warrior and Troilus's brother.
- Achilles: The most famous Greek warrior, known for his strength.
- Ulysses: A very smart Greek leader, known for his clever plans.
The Story of Love and War
The play mixes a love story with the chaos of war. Troilus and Cressida fall in love with each other. Their love grows with the help of Cressida's uncle, Pandarus. However, their happiness is short-lived.
Cressida's father, Calchas, has left Troy to join the Greeks. He asks for his daughter to be sent to him in the Greek camp. This means Troilus and Cressida must be separated.
Life in the Greek Camp
When Cressida arrives at the Greek camp, she is greeted by many Greek soldiers. She soon meets Diomedes, a Greek warrior. Over time, Cressida's feelings for Troilus begin to change, and she starts to show interest in Diomedes.
Meanwhile, the war continues with many battles. The play shows the arguments and disagreements among the Greek leaders. It also shows the Trojan heroes, like Hector, fighting bravely.
The Sad Ending
Troilus visits the Greek camp and sees Cressida with Diomedes. This breaks his heart and makes him very angry. The play ends with more fighting and a sense of sadness. It shows how war can destroy love and hope.
Why is This Play Important?
Troilus and Cressida is different from many of Shakespeare's other plays. It doesn't have a clear hero or villain. It explores themes like love, war, honor, and betrayal in a complex way.
The play makes people think about:
- How war affects people's lives and relationships.
- The true meaning of love and loyalty.
- Whether honor and fame are always worth fighting for.
It's a play that makes you question things and see different sides of a story.
Images for kids
-
Cressida by Edward Poynter
-
The first page of Troilus and Cressida, printed in the First Folio of 1623
-
Title page, 1609 quarto edition
See also
In Spanish: Troilo y Crésida para niños
