The Erudite Comedy introduces the Hebrew reader to three saucy Italian comedies. These comic gems were written in the first quarter of the 16th century, the period in which Western classical theatre was reborn. Each of them possesses unique historical and artistic values: Ludovico Ariosto’s ‘La Cassaria’ (1508) is well-known as ‘The first modern play’; Bernardo Dovizi’s ‘La Calandra’ (1513) is remarkable for its ingenious plot, bold erotic allusions and surprisingly feminist soliloquies; Niccolo Machiavelli’s ‘Clizia’ (1525) contains autobiographical elements, reflecting the aging Renaissance genius’ love affair with a well-known young courtesan .

Mandragola – known in English as The Mandrake – is Niccolo Machiavelli’s most renowned comedy. It is widely considered the greatest stage play of the Italian Renaissance, and one of the most brilliant comedies ever written. Mandragola is admired for its blunt and sober portrayal of human nature and the prominent role of deceit in the shaping of reality. This new Hebrew translation is accompanied by a comprehensive introduction and interpretative notes. The introduction documents the rebirth of western theatre in the Italian Renaissance, and examines the relation between Machiavelli’s comedy and his ‘serious’ writings.