Polyeucte is a tragedy written by French playwright Pierre Corneille. The play is set in the third century AD in the city of Melitene, which is part of the Roman Empire. The protagonist, Polyeucte, is a nobleman who converts to Christianity despite the risks involved. His wife, Pauline, is torn between her loyalty to her husband and her duty to her father, who is a Roman governor and opposes Christianity. The conflict between the couple's love and their religious and political beliefs leads to a tragic conclusion. The play explores themes of faith, love, loyalty, and sacrifice, and is considered one of Corneille's most important works. It was first performed in 1643 and has since been adapted into various forms, including operas and films.POLY. Ah, how my heart quails at that single word! Thee, Felix, I o'ercame within my cell, Laughed at thy threats if death and torture fell; Yet hast thou still one arm to rouse my fears, The rest I scorn, but dread thy daughter's tears! One only talisman remains; great God, 'tis mine, Sufficient for my every need His strength divine!This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.