Aureng-zebe is a Restoration drama by John Dryden, written in 1675. It is based loosely on the figures of Aurangzeb , the then-reigning Mughal Emperor of India; his brother, Murad Baksh ; and their father, Shah Jahan . The piece is the last drama that Dryden wrote in rhymed verse. It is considered his best heroic work.The premiere production by the King's Company featured Charles Hart in the title role, Michael Mohun as the Old Emperor, Edward Kynaston as Morat, William Wintershall as Arimant, Rebecca Marshall as the Empress Nourmahal, Elizabeth Cox as Indamora, and Mary Corbet as Melesinda.
“Death in itself is nothing; but we fear
To be we know not what, we know not where.”
Aureng-Zebe (1676), Act IV, scene i.
“T is not for nothing that we life pursue;
It pays our hopes with something still that's new.”
Aureng-Zebe (1676), Act IV, scene i.
Aureng-Zebe (1676), Act IV, scene i.
