Prince Hagen

"Prince Hagen" by Upton Sinclair is a drama written in the early 20th century. The play unfolds the rise of Prince Hagen, a character deeply rooted in mythical themes yet intertwined with the socio-economic realities of America, exploring themes of power, greed, and identity. At its center are key figures such as Gerald Isman, a young poet, and Prince Hagen, the grandson of the Nibelung King Alberich, who navigates a world defined by wealth, politics, and class struggles, ultimately leading to a clash of ideals. The opening of "Prince Hagen" establishes a dynamic mix of fantasy and realism, beginning in a primeval forest where Gerald Isman, a poet in a tent, encounters a mysterious character, Mimi, disguised as a pack-peddler. This encounter introduces elements of myth through the discussion of Nibelungs and their treasures. The scene transitions to Nibelheim, setting the stage for themes of ambition and manipulation, especially as Hagen, a powerful yet rebellious figure born of both Nibelung and human lineage, is summoned by his grandfather, King Alberich. Through their dialogue, the opening hints at Hagen's tumultuous character and his aspirations, laying the groundwork for a narrative interwoven with ancient myths and modern societal issues. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Upton Beall Sinclair Jr. was an American author, muckraker, and political activist, and the 1934 Democratic Party nominee for governor of California. He wrote nearly 100 books and other works in several genres. Sinclair's work was well known and popular in the first half of the 20th century, and he won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1943.