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30 pages 1 hour read

Amadeus

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1979

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Book Brief

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Peter Shaffer

Amadeus

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1979
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Vienna, Austria • 1780s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Amadeus by Peter Shaffer presents a fictionalized recounting of the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart through the eyes of Antonio Salieri, who narrates his envious and ultimately destructive relationship with the young composer, leading to tragic consequences.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Melancholic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

18,705 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Peter Shaffer's Amadeus is widely lauded for its gripping exploration of genius and envy, masterfully balancing historical drama with psychological depth. Critics praise the compelling characterizations and intense dialogue. However, some find the liberties taken with historical facts a point of contention. Overall, it remains a provocative and powerful piece.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Amadeus?

A reader who enjoys Amadeus by Peter Shaffer likely appreciates historical drama, psychological intrigue, and classical music. Similar to fans of Robert Harris' An Officer and a Spy and Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall, they revel in complex characters, moral dilemmas, and richly textured storytelling set against historical backdrops.

4.4

18,705 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Antonio Salieri

An Italian composer and the protagonist who narrates the play, offering a perspective influenced by his personal biases and feelings about his rivalry with Mozart. His role involves interactions with several key figures in the court and music scene.

A divinely talented composer depicted as both gifted and flawed, whose tumultuous career and personal life unfold through Salieri’s recounting of events. Known for his prodigious works from a young age, his character is central to the narrative.

Two characters who serve as the gossipmongers, reflecting the rumors and societal perceptions of the time, influencing the unfolding story with their revelations and insights. They represent the voice of popular society within the play.

An official in the emperor's court concerned with the propriety of imperial art who becomes opposed to Mozart due to his unconventional compositions and behavior. He is part of a group that challenges Mozart's role in the court.

Director of Imperial Opera who is critical of Mozart's more provocative compositions and attempts to leverage his authority to suppress Mozart's works. He is a central figure in the court's opposition to Mozart.

The emperor’s prefect of the Imperial Library, who is committed to upholding the perceived dignity of opera and becomes outraged by Mozart's inclusion of certain themes. He is involved in significant decisions impacting Mozart's career.

Mozart’s wife, who is portrayed as playful yet pressured by the financial instability and social dynamics influencing Mozart's career. Her interactions with Mozart and other characters add depth to the personal side of the story.

The ruler of Austria and the Holy Roman Emperor who loves music but often relies on his advisors for artistic judgments. His decisions and opinions on opera play a crucial role in the narrative’s development.

A silent role, she is a singer and student of Salieri, highlighted initially for her talent and later involved in personal scandals as perceived by Salieri. Her presence, though non-verbal, influences Salieri’s actions.

A silent role, she is the wife of Salieri, representing his initial commitment to virtue and religious devotion. Her presence signifies Salieri’s personal life and the tensions it faces.

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Vienna, Austria • 1780s

Publication Year

1979

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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