The Coin, the Sword, and Open Book

A poetic play, written mostly in iambic pentameter, set in the Korean Three Kingdoms Period. The royal family uses prophets and traditions for their personal means, and they have little consideration for the common people. However in spurning a soothsayer, their acts put into play an unfolding curse. In picking a second wife from a small country town, due to the legend of her beauty, the prince has unwittingly chosen the young lady destined to cause his downfall. The love between the country girl and shepherd’s son inspires them to overcome any obstacles and strengthen their kingdom’s standing. Though Prince Silla achieves military and financial success, through the work of others, he lives in pain of losing her legendary beauty and kindness. The country couple lives a simple life more indicative of the young nation’s traditions than the royal lines so often admired and studied.