First published in 1990, Don Juan: Variations on a Theme explores the differing perceptions of this famous character following his first appearance on the European stage in the early seventeenth century. The book concentrates on the ways in which perceptions of Don Juan’s character have altered in response to changes in social and moral values. It examines famous Don Juan works, including those by Moliere, Byron, Pushkin, Shaw, Anouilh, and Max Frisch, and relates them to these changing views. It also looks at a variety of other plays, poems, and novels on this theme, and highlights the important role of music in Don Juan’s history. The book concludes with a consideration of Don Juan’s lasting popularity and whether it has run its course. Don Juan: Variations on a Theme will appeal to anyone with an interest in the history of Don Juan, comparative literature, and European literature.

First published in 1990, Don Juan: Variations on a Theme explores the differing perceptions of this famous character following his first appearance on the European stage in the early seventeenth century. The book concentrates on the ways in which perceptions of Don Juan's character have altered in response to changes in social and moral values. It examines famous Don Juan works, including those by Moliere, Byron, Pushkin, Shaw, Anouilh, and Max Frisch, and relates them to these changing views. It also looks at a variety of other plays, poems, and novels on this theme, and highlights the important role of music in Don Juan's history. The book concludes with a consideration of Don Juan's lasting popularity and whether it has run its course. Don Juan: Variations on a Theme will appeal to anyone with an interest in the history of Don Juan, comparative literature, and European literature.

DON JUAN by Lord Byron is a satirical epic poem that follows the adventures of the legendary Spanish character Don Juan. Published in parts between 1819 and 1824, this poem is considered to be one of Byron's most famous and influential works. The story of Don Juan is one that has been retold and adapted countless times throughout history, but Byron's version stands out for its clever wit, social commentary, and poetic skill. The poem begins with Don Juan's birth and traces his life as he travels through Spain, Italy, Greece, and Russia, encountering various women and getting entangled in numerous scandals and affairs. At its core, DON JUAN is a scathing satire of society and its conventions. Byron uses his protagonist as a vehicle to criticize the hypocritical and corrupt nature of the upper classes. Through Don Juan's interactions with high society, the reader is exposed to the vanity, greed, and immorality that permeate this world. By blending humor with social commentary, Byron creates a powerful indictment of the society he lived in. However, DON JUAN is not just a social satire. It also delves into philosophical and psychological themes. Don Juan is a complex character, torn between his desires and moral obligations. He represents the struggle between reason and passion, and Byron uses him to explore the human condition and the complexities of love, sex, and relationships. Byron's writing style in DON JUAN is nothing short of brilliant. He seamlessly combines traditional poetic forms with modern elements, such as colloquial language and pop culture references. This fusion creates a lively and dynamic narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Byron's mastery of language and his ability to evoke emotion through his words make DON JUAN a true literary masterpiece. In addition to its literary merit, DON JUAN also caused quite a stir when it was first published. Its bold and controversial themes, including sex, religion, and politics, sparked debates and even led to the poem being banned in some countries. However, this did not stop its popularity, and the poem has since become a classic and a must-read for any lover of literature. In conclusion, DON JUAN by Lord Byron is a timeless work that continues to captivate readers with its clever satire, profound insights, and masterful storytelling. It not only offers a commentary on society but also provides a glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential poets of the Romantic era. Its enduring appeal and relevance make it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and society.