Shaffer, Peter: 1926-2016

Amadeus, 1979 - Thematic Parallels: Envy

Envy is a complex emotion that arises when a person feels discontent caused by someone else’s qualities, possessions, achievements, or advantages.
Shaffer, Peter: Amadeus, 1979
The play explores genius, envy, and the nature of artistic creation.
The following books are thematically simliar. They lend themselves well to being read in groups, compared with one another, or used to teach a similar topic over an extended period with a class:
- Barnes, Julian: Arthur & George, 2005, ~500pp
  This book addresses rivalry, reputation, and the quest for greatness.
  - Both works highlight the moral and societal injustices faced by central characters, whether through legal systems (Arthur & George) or social perception (Amadeus). They are similar in their focus on historical figures, societal judgment, injustice, psychological depth, and the interplay of genius and morality.
- Hornby, Nick: A Long Way Down, 2005, ~250pp
  This novel tackles aspects of self-worth, comparing oneself to others, and interpersonal tension, often through wit and dark humor.
  - Both works converge on human psychology, interpersonal dynamics, mortality, and the interplay of tragedy and dark humor.
- Miller, Arthur: The Crucible, 1953, ~120pp
  This play deals with human flaws, moral dilemmas, and intense emotional conflicts which can involve envy or resentment.
  - Both plays share a focus on jealousy, reputation, moral hypocrisy, manipulation, and tragic characters. Both use historical or semi-historical settings to examine universal human weaknesses, showing how personal flaws can intersect with societal pressures to create tragedy.
- Shaw, George Bernard: Pygmalion, 1913, ~100pp
  This play involves social rivalry and transformation, with themes around personal worth.
  - Both works explore transformation, the tension between talent and social structures, complex mentor/protégé dynamics, and the psychological interplay between admiration and envy, often blending comedy and drama to deepen their impact.
List of general discussion questions on Envy (pdf)
List of essay prompts on Envy (pdf)