Woyzeck

Woyzeck is the story a poor soldier's exploitation at the hands of his 'superiors' and sexual betrayal by his wife culminating in a descent into madness and murder. Left incomplete at Büchner's tragically early death in 1837 - he was 23 - and not performed until 1913. Often considered the first truly 'modern' play its themes, fragmentary nature and splintered dialogue pre-empt many of the concerns of 20th century drama. Far from being a period piece its themes of social exploitation and sexual jealousy are universal and resonate strongly to this day.