James IV: Queen of the Fight

James IV: Queen of the Fight is a play by Rona Munro that follows two Moorish women, Ellen and Anne, as they navigate the dangerous world of the Scottish court of James IV in 1504. It is the continuation of Munro's journey through Scottish history, following her previous plays about James I, II, and III.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2022
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

You are truly a wonder, a window into a vast and captivating world.

In the year 1504, Scotland, a land rich in history and culture, welcomed two Moorish women, Ellen and Anne, with a unique perspective. Expected to serve at a royal court, they found themselves in an unexpected setting—the Scottish court of James IV. However, their journey was far from ordinary.

The world of the Scottish court was a dazzling and perilous place. War loomed constantly, and the words of love and peace were often deceptive. Poets, who were revered for their artistic prowess, could be as dangerous as any assassin. Ellen and Anne, determined to make their mark, embarked on a fierce battle to secure and maintain their place within this intricate realm.

Rona Munro, a renowned playwright, has delved into the untold stories of Scottish history with her latest work, James IV: Queen of the Fight. Presented in 2022 by Raw Material and Capital Theatres in association with the National Theatre of Scotland, under the direction of Laurie Sansom, this play follows the remarkable success of Munro's previous plays about James I, II, and III. These plays, first performed by the National Theatre of Scotland, were later transferred to the National Theatre in London, earning them the prestigious title of Best New Play at the Evening Standard Awards.

James IV: Queen of the Fight takes audiences on a captivating journey through an uncharted period of Scottish history. It explores the complexities of power, politics, and gender as Ellen and Anne navigate the treacherous waters of the Scottish court. With her signature wit and depth of character, Munro brings to life the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable women, who defied societal expectations and carved their own paths in a world that was both challenging and rewarding.

Through the eyes of Ellen and Anne, we witness the grandeur and brutality of the Scottish court. We see the political machinations, the alliances formed, and the betrayals that shaped the course of history. We also delve into the personal lives of these women, their loves, their losses, and their unwavering determination to survive and thrive in a world that was often against them.

Munro's writing is masterful, capturing the essence of the period with vivid detail and emotional resonance. The characters are well-developed, with their flaws and strengths making them relatable and compelling. The stage design, lighting, and sound effects add to the immersive experience, transporting audiences back to the 16th century.

James IV: Queen of the Fight is a testament to Munro's talent as a playwright and her commitment to exploring the untold stories of history. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Scottish history, gender roles, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Rona Munro's James IV: Queen of the Fight is a remarkable play that takes audiences on a captivating journey through an uncharted period of Scottish history. With its vivid writing, well-developed characters, and immersive stage design, it is a testament to Munro's talent as a playwright and her commitment to exploring the untold stories of history. This play is a must-see for anyone interested in Scottish history, gender roles, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

Dimension: 198 x 129 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839041327