Impressive performance by Anna Chancellor

If you could sum up Classic Drama in three words, what would they be?

Moving, compelling, involving

What did you like best about this story?

The complex relationship between Gwendoline and Deronda. It was portrayed brilliantly.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

Gwendoline's monologues. Anna Chancellor did a great job of capturing all the nuances of feeling.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Without giving anything away, the scenes between Deronda and Gwendoline at the climax of the novel, and their final scene.

Any additional comments?

I've focused on Gwendoline and Deronda because for me they had a big impact, but the entire cast was excellent. Mr Grandcourt was utterly terrifying, and Myra, although she becomes a more secondary character, comes across as a woman with a lot of quiet courage and character. I was impressed by the way the novel has been compressed into a play of just under three hours without becoming confusing or shallow. To be honest Daniel Deronda was not one of my favourite Eliot novels but now I am keen to revisit it! Also, I must put in some final words in praise of Anna Chancellor. She is a favourite of mine, but I wasn't sure how she would fit into playing Gwendoline. However, I was completely blown away. The part called for a whole range of emotions and she was utterly convincing throughout. Definitely a must-hear.

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1 person found this helpful

a struggle to finish

didnt en joy this book. I found it rather heavy going. disappointing, espe ially the female character.

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