The False Dmitry and James the Old Pretender: Mary Pix’s The Czar of Muscovy

The British dramatist Mary Pix’s (1666–1709) play Czar of Muscovy (1701) has received limited and inconsistent critical attention compared to her other plays. This paper offers a fresh analysis the play, which depicts rule Russian pretender Dmitry Ivanovic, lasted from 1605 1606 when he was killed in an uprising. reading centralizes history false during Time Troubles his dramatic role as figurative representation English Catholic James Edward Francis Stuart (James Old Pretender). Pix manipulates public private image False (called Demetrius play) undermine James’ claim throne. can be seen through comparison their similar biographical details. Demetrius’ displays tyranny effeminacy, are exposed treatment key women life: Queen Marina, supposed mother Empress Sophia, captive Zarriana. In own ways, three help him reach throne only destroy him. Their dramatization powerful agents who face oppression achieve triumph is message female audience emulate characters prevent restoration pretender. Thus, emerges dynamic unifying force that transcends time geography.