Peter Shaffer
Peter Shaffer was an acclaimed British playwright and screenwriter, known for his sophisticated, often psychologically complex dramas. His most notable works include the plays 'Equus' (1973) and 'Amadeus' (1979), both of which were adapted into successful films. Shaffer's writing often explored themes of artistic creation, human motivation, and the nature of genius. His contributions to theatre have been recognized with numerous awards, including Tony Awards and an Academy Award for the film adaptation of 'Amadeus'.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Equus
"Equus" is a psychological drama exploring the complex relationships between devotion, myth, and sexuality. The story revolves around a psychiatrist attempting to treat a young patient who has a pathological religious fascination with horses. Driven by a violent act committed by the boy, the psychiatrist delves into the boy's twisted worship of the titular deity, Equus, leading both doctor and patient to confront their own notions of passion, freedom, and the nature of sanity. Through intense and often disturbing dialogues and interactions, the play examines the boundaries of normative behavior and the destructive potential of obsession.
The 8215th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Amadeus
The play explores the tumultuous life of a young musical genius, as seen through the envious eyes of his less-talented contemporary. Set in the opulent world of 18th-century Vienna, the story delves into the bitter rivalry between the established court composer and the prodigious newcomer who threatens to overshadow him. As the older composer recounts his efforts to undermine the young virtuoso's career, a complex narrative of obsession, intrigue, and madness unfolds, culminating in a haunting examination of the price of genius and the destructive nature of jealousy.
The 10429th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Black Comedy
The play is a farcical piece that turns the traditional stage convention on its head by having the set plunged into darkness for the audience while the characters pretend to be in a blackout. The chaos unfolds in real-time as a struggling sculptor attempts to impress his fiancée's pompous father and a millionaire art collector. However, when a power cut strikes, the sculptor's flat becomes a hotbed of mishaps and mistaken identities as neighbors, lovers, and the in-laws all stumble around, leading to a series of comic misunderstandings and slapstick humor, all under the cloak of darkness that only the audience can see through.
The 10968th Greatest Book of All Time
