The Orphan of China

Arthur Murphy
London 1759
Harvard University Theatre Collection, THE HD 17473.52.7.100

Click for full-size imageThe subject matter of this tragedy relates a Chinese tale first brought to Europe in Du Halde's Description de la Chine. It was based on the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368) play The Orphan of Zhao (Zhaoshi Guer 趙氏孤兒). Versions of this tale exist by various Enlightenment writers, including Voltaire.

(Click image for full-sized reproduction)

Read Jennifer Tsien's essay on Voltaire and China

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Oct 1, 2013

Harvard University Department of Music
North Yard
Cambridge, MA 02138

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