Athaliah: A Tragedy: Intended for Reading Only, Translated Into English Blank Verse, From Racine (A. Gombert's Edition, 1825)

"Athaliah: A Tragedy" by J. Donkersley and Jean Racine is a dramatic tragedy intended for reading only, written in the late 19th century. This work is a translation from Racine, which follows the tumultuous reign of Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, as she seeks to exterminate the royal lineage of David in her quest for power. The narrative revolves around the central character of Athaliah, whose actions and ambitions lead to a dramatic struggle for the throne of Judah. At the start of the play, the high priest Joad and Abner express their deep concerns about the current state of religious observance in Judah under Queen Athaliah's tyrannical rule, which has led many to forsake their faith for idol worship. Joad, committed to restoring the rightful lineage of David, is aware of an infant, Joas, the sole survivor of the slain royal heirs, who must be hidden from Athaliah’s wrath. As the opening scenes unfold, plans are put in place to reveal Joas as the rightful king amidst rising tensions, while the ominous threat of Athaliah looms ever closer, foreshadowing the tragic conflicts that will define the play's course.