Paul Claudel's Break of Noon: An Alchemical Cosmic Awakening - Lead Seeks Gold

Break of Noon (1905) is sensual and erotic. The protagonists of this drama are earth lusting for heaven, body obsessed with spirit, and darkness longing for light. Perpetual turmoil rages in the hearts and minds of Claudel's split and chaotic souls. Each in his own way seeks to liberate himself from egotistical and arrogant tendencies while, at the same time, attempting to acquire altruism, humility, and Godliness. Claudel's creatures in Break of Noon are pagans clothed in Catholic vestments; they are hedonists rather than ascetics. Break of Noon is alchemical theater It dramatizes a transformation process: from a leaden (base metal), earth-oriented and psychologically chaotic condition to an attempted purification of the soul and the establishment of a harmonious golden (noble metal). It is the purpose of this study to analyze the change taking place within and exterior to the characters from an alchemical point of view. (BLK)