The action takes place during the immediate aftermath of the French Revolution. A "Committee of Public Safety" has been set up in order to safeguard the principles of the revolution. Citizens are encouraged to denounce to the Committee anyone whom they suspect of harbouring views contrary to these principles. Anyone so accused is arrested and brought before the Public Prosecutor, (Fougier-Tinville, played by Alan Badel) in what is no less than a show trial - the outcome is a foregone conclusion because once denounced he or she is deemed to be guilty of the crime "Enemy of the People". Fougier-Tinville throws himself into his role with exemplary zeal, mercilessly sending countless victims to "Mademoiselle la Guillotine". Fifty-six years have elapsed since I watched this play so I am a little short on detail - perhaps there are others who remember more than I do? However, it made a strong impression on me that has lasted to this day and if there is one lesson to be drawn from it, it is that a society without justice and mercy is ultimately doomed to failure. That message surely has relevance today.
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