The narrative centers on the tumultuous political landscape of Russia following the death of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It delves into the ascent of Boris Godunov to the Russian throne amidst power struggles, rumors, and the specter of a pretender claiming to be the rightful heir. The story explores themes of ambition, guilt, and the heavy burden of leadership as Boris grapples with his conscience and the consequences of his actions in a period marked by political intrigue, betrayal, and the quest for legitimacy in a nation on the brink of turmoil.

The play is a dramatic tale set in Renaissance Florence, revolving around the character of Lorenzo de Medici, a young, disillusioned aristocrat entangled in the corrupt political machinations of his time. Disgusted by the tyrannical rule of his cousin, Duke Alessandro, and the moral decay of society, Lorenzo hatches a complex plot to assassinate the Duke. His internal conflict and the influence of Machiavellian philosophy drive the narrative, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and the struggle between personal ideals and the harsh realities of the political world. The play ultimately unfolds as a dark, psychological drama that delves into the depths of human nature and the costs of radical action.

"Scenes from the Past" is a trilogy of satirical plays that delve into the corruption and injustices of Russian society during the 19th century. Through a blend of dark humor and tragedy, the narrative follows the protagonist, a young nobleman, as he navigates a treacherous legal system and the decadent aristocracy. The plays critique the bureaucratic nightmare and moral decay of the time, exposing the absurdities of the judicial process and the societal norms that allow the powerful to exploit the weak. The work is a scathing commentary on the author's own experiences with the law and a timeless reflection on the universal themes of power, greed, and injustice.

"Cinna" is a classic French tragedy set in ancient Rome, focusing on themes of clemency and tyranny. The play revolves around the titular character, a nobleman involved in a conspiracy to assassinate Emperor Augustus. As the plot unfolds, the conspirators grapple with their moral dilemmas and the consequences of their actions. The emperor, upon discovering the plot, faces his own internal struggle between his desire for justice and the virtue of forgiveness. The narrative explores the complexities of power, loyalty, and the human capacity for mercy, culminating in a surprising act of leniency that challenges the traditional expectations of retribution in tragedy.

The play revolves around the transformation of its main character, a man of Saxon origin who rises to become the Chancellor of England and a close friend to the King. However, when he is appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, he undergoes a profound change, embracing his role with a newfound religious zeal that puts him at odds with the King's authority. The play explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the conflict between church and state, culminating in a dramatic clash that leads to the main character's martyrdom. His journey from a pleasure-loving courtier to a principled man of faith challenges both his own identity and the power structures of his time.