Conquest; Or, A Piece of Jade; a New Play in Three Acts

"Conquest; Or, A Piece of Jade; A New Play in Three Acts" by Marie Carmichael Stopes is a dramatic play written in the early 20th century. Set primarily in New Zealand during World War I, the narrative revolves around the lives of sheep farmers, touching on themes of love, ambition, and the harsh realities of war. The main characters include Gordon Hyde, a New Zealand sheep farmer who is emotionally conflicted due to his inability to fight in the war, and Loveday Lewisham, who helps him channel his ideas for a more peaceful future. The opening of the play introduces the setting and characters, establishing a sheep farm in New Zealand, where the laborers discuss the impending arrival of Nora Lee, a young English woman, and her cousin Loveday. Gordon Hyde, who feels unworthy and lacks the physical ability to fight due to a leg injury, grapples with feelings of inadequacy amidst the excitement of the war and the arrival of the women. Conversations among the shepherds reveal both humorous and serious undertones about life in New Zealand and the war's impact. Their interactions hint at budding romances and personal struggles, culminating in a sense of longing and aspiration for a better world as Gordon is inspired by a vision to propose a revolutionary concept in governance aimed to wipe out the reasons for war. The play sets a poignant stage for emotional and ideological conflict as the characters navigate their relationships against the backdrop of an impending world crisis.