The Count Of Monte Cristo: A Play
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
Framed by a conspiracy and torn from the woman he loves, Edmond Dantes is wrongly imprisoned for fourteen years. Escaping captivity, he enters the upper reaches of Parisian society, insinuating himself into the lives of his three tormentors as, one by one, he seeks to use their own secrets to destroy them in the guise of his new identity: the Count of Monte Cristo. A dark tale of intrigue and vengeance by the master storyteller, Alexandre Dumas. This play by award-winning playwright Christopher M Walsh (Miss Holmes, A Tale Of Two Cities) captures the epic scope of revenge and tragedy like no other adaptation before.
Age
13-17
Length
178 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Edmond DantèS (The Count Of Monte Cristo)
MercéDèS Mondego
Abbé Faria
Caderousse
GéRard De Villefort
Baron Danglars
Fernand Mondego
Discussion points
What do you think about the choices Edmond Dantes made after escaping prison? Were they right or wrong?
How do the characters in the play show what it means to be loyal to someone?
The story has themes of revenge and forgiveness. Which moments stood out to you that showcase these themes?
If you were in Edmond’s place, how would you handle being wrongfully accused?
What does the story teach us about the consequences of our actions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about the characters’ decisions and relate them to their own experiences of right and wrong.
Discuss the concept of loyalty by providing examples from the play and asking your child how they show loyalty in their own relationships.
Explore the themes of revenge and forgiveness with your child by discussing real-life scenarios where they might have encountered these feelings.
Use Edmond's story as a starting point to talk about justice and injustice, and ask your child how they feel when they see injustice around them or in stories.
Highlight the moral lessons of the play, prompting your child to think about the long-term effects of both positive and negative actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and resilience
Explanation: The main character, Edmond Dantès, faces wrongful imprisonment and numerous challenges but remains determined to overcome adversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not giving up in the face of difficulties, whether it's completing a challenging homework assignment or resolving a conflict with a friend.
Example Lesson: Justice and fairness
Explanation: Throughout the story, Dantès seeks justice for the wrongs done to him, which highlights the value of fairness in dealing with others.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to always seek fair treatment for themselves and others, and to speak up against injustices.
Example Lesson: The impact of choices and consequences
Explanation: The story vividly depicts how the actions and decisions made by Dantès and other characters lead to various consequences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think about the outcomes of their actions before making decisions, helping them to develop better judgment and responsibility.
Example Lesson: Empathy and forgiveness
Explanation: Despite seeking justice, Dantès also learns about the power of empathy and forgiveness towards those who have wronged him.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of understanding others' perspectives and offering forgiveness, which can lead to healing and better relationships.
Example Lesson: The importance of hope
Explanation: Edmond Dantès clings to hope throughout his misfortunes, which ultimately aids in his survival and success.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to remain hopeful and optimistic in difficult times, knowing that perseverance can lead to positive change.