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Esther of Engaddi is a literary character--a "Jewess" living at Engaddi in the years following the Jewish War. The character was created by Silvio Pellico in 1821.

Overview

Silvio Pellico, an Italian patriot and writer, composed the play Esther of Engaddi in 1821, when he was in prison for his political ideas.

Esther is a Jewess, whose husband is the champion of the Jews after the lost war against the Romans in 66-70 CE. Her father is a follower of Jesus of Nazareth and has been banned from the community. Esther is loyal to her husband, but refuses to desert her father. She preaches religious tolerance to both sides (Christians and Jews). This position makes her vulnerable to the attacks of the evil High Priest who seeks to seduce her. The virtuous Esther dies rather than betraying either her husband or her father.

Esther of Engaddi in literature & the arts

The fictional character created by Silvio Pellico in 1821 enjoyed some popularity in the mid-19th century when it inspired operas and ballet. It is now virtually forgotten.

• See Esther of Engaddi (arts)

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