Erasmus Montanus

History: The script was written in 1722 and 1723, but was not published until 1731 in the 5th volume of Den Danske Skue-Plads, a collection of plays by Holberg. The play itself then did not premier until 1747. It is likely that Holberg delayed its release to avoid backlash because of the play's critical nature. The play criticises the academic profession that Holberg himself was a part of and the educational pedagogy he experienced at the University of Copenhagen as a Professor of Metaphysics. Other scholars speculate that the play's performance was delayed simply because no company cared to put the production on. When it finally premiered in 1747 it was initially unsuccessful, as its particular satirical style was no longer popular. It has since been recognised as one of Holberg's best comedies and for its important historical perspective.

Version of Erasmus Montanus (1956)