André

(1798) - William Dunlap

Tragedy based on the capture and execution of Major John André (1750-1780), a British officer and spy during the American Revolution. Having plotted with Benedict Arnold the betrayal of the garrison at West Point, N.Y., André is captured by the Americans. He manages, nevertheless, to win their admiration for his courage and refinement and causes General George Washington, who must determine André's fate, to decide between his sympathies and his duty. Despite the pleas of young Bland, the son of a prisoner of the British, and Honora, a young woman in love with André, Washington reluctantly does his duty and orders the execution of the spy.

[GAUTAM DASGUPTA]