The Public Theater

Palamon and Arcite are kinsmen from Thebes, captured while fighting against the Athenians. In prison they both fall in love with Emilia, who is the sister of Hippolyta, wife of Duke Theseus. The two men try to woo Emilia, leaving their friendship in tatters and forcing Theseus to separate them. Palamon remains in jail, while Arcite is banished from Athens. However, Arcite returns to Athens in disguise and Palamon obtains the help of the jailer’s daughter, who is in love with him, to escape. Arcite and Palamon meet in the forest outside the city and are preparing to duel for Emilia’s love, when Theseus stops them. Emilia and Hippolyta convince Theseus not to put them to death, but when Emilia refuses to choose one of the men he instead commands a duel between them. The winner will receive Emilia’s hand, and the loser will be executed. Arcite wins the combat and Palamon is sentenced to death. However, before Palamon’s execution Arcite is mortally injured in a riding accident and on his deathbed he gives Emilia’s hand to his friend.

This production received a Lucille Lortel Award nomination for Outstanding Costume Design.