written 1941, produced. 1946.
Drama based on the life of Beaumarchais, whose comedies attacked the society of pre-revolutionary France. The play shows Beaumarchais impotent in the French Revolution, unable to support the translation of his revolutionary ideas into action. He cannot resolve the conflict between his belief in revolutionary ideals and his hatred of the consequent bloodbath. His fictional hero Figaro inspires the people, but Beaumarchais remains behind. As the masses march toward the Bastille, he watches from his window.