In his sequel to The Dance of Death, Part 1, August Strindberg continues his symbolist exploration of cruelty and unrequited passions. At the brink of death in the previous play, the Captain is now a picture of robust health, showing care and compassion for his wife Alice and her cousin Curt. But Alice remains suspicious of her husband’s motives--paranoia that is well-founded, as the Captain has manipulated military officers and family members to turn against each other before. Alice’s fears are realized: The Captain has taken steps to ruin Curt, both emotionally and financially. At the same time, their daughter Judith is coming of age and caught in a love triangle--and her father is eager to marry her off to an older Colonel in the promise of position and power. However, no matter how much he tries to dance from its grasp, the Captain cannot escape the inevitable grip of death. Much like its predecessor, The Dance of Death, Part 2 is a symbolist masterpiece that examines the dark psychology of human relationships.
The Dance of Death, Part 2 guide sections
