Jalmari Hahl's Kandaules is a three-act play from 1910 that takes an ancient story and gives it a distinctly Finnish, early-20th-century edge. It’s a compact drama where a single, foolish decision spirals into disaster.

The Story

The plot revolves around King Kandaules of Lydia. He is deeply proud of his wife, Queen Nyssia, and believes her beauty is unmatched. His friend, Gyges, is a loyal soldier. In a moment of reckless pride, Kandaules makes a wager with Gyges. He is so certain of Nyssia's perfection that he insists Gyges must see her for himself. To make this happen, Kandaules devises a plan for Gyges to hide in their bedroom and watch the queen undress. Gyges is horrified by the idea but is bound by his oath to his king. The scheme is executed, but Nyssia discovers the betrayal. The rest of the play deals with the devastating fallout of this violation, as shame, honor, and vengeance collide with tragic consequences.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was how current the central conflict feels. Hahl isn't just retelling a myth; he's using it to ask tough questions. Who truly 'owns' a person's image or body? Is blind loyalty to a leader a virtue or a flaw? Kandaules treats his wife not as a person, but as the ultimate trophy to be displayed, and that arrogance is his undoing. Nyssia, though wronged, is no passive victim—her response drives the play's powerful second half. The dialogue is sharp, and the structure is tight, with every scene building the tension toward its grim conclusion. It’s a masterclass in how a simple, flawed character decision can unravel everything.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for readers who love classic tragedies but want to discover something off the beaten path. It’s a great pick for anyone interested in early modern Nordic literature, or for theatre fans who enjoy psychologically intense, character-driven dramas. While it’s over a century old, its exploration of privacy, power, and betrayal couldn’t be more relevant. Don't go in expecting a light historical piece; go in ready for a gripping, sobering, and brilliantly constructed hour of theatre on the page.