The Laws of Candy

"The Laws of Candy" is a tragic play written by John Fletcher and Francis Beaumont, believed to have been first performed in the early 17th century. The play is set in the fictional kingdom of Candy and centers around the themes of love, power, and justice. The plot revolves around the conflict between two brothers, Penthea and Ithocles, who find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue and forbidden love. Penthea, who is married to Orgilus, falls in love with Ithocles, but their relationship is thwarted by the oppressive laws of Candy and the machinations of their ambitious brother, Prophilus. As the story unfolds, tensions escalate, leading to betrayal, revenge, and ultimately tragedy. The play explores themes of honor, duty, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, highlighting the destructive nature of jealousy and the struggle for power.