THE MACROPULOS SECRET. By Karel Capek. (Holden. 5s.)—This play deals
with • the new scientificproblem of be
longevity and was written fore Back to Methuselah appeared. . An interesting comparison might be instituted. Despite his own preface, however, Mr. Capek really approaches his theme as a practical playwright rather than a philosopher, The legal case of the Gregor millions, protracted over several genera- . tions, is no more than an excuse to disclose gradually the mysterious character of Emilia Marty. The beautiful woman who has lived from the sixteenth, century, but outlived all human interests; is a hapless and tragic figure. She becomes a legend before our eyes, and reminds us of the enigmatic women of the Renaissance. The rapid, nervous dialogue reads thinly, but the Greek heroine, impassive, amoral, terrible in her secular indifference, would afford a great opportunity on : the stage.
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