The Beggar's Opera

When Polly Peachum, daughter to a local fence and thief-catcher, marries infamous highwayman Macheath, it sets off a comically dangerous chain of events as Polly’s father is determined to have his new son-in-law killed. However, Polly isn’t the only woman in Macheath’s life, and he soon gets caught up in the consequences of his many indiscretions.

The Beggar’s Opera is the most famous surviving example of satirical ballad opera to come out of the Restoration period. Generally considered to be John Gay’s masterpiece, the drama pokes fun at Italian opera while lampooning several prominent public figures of the time, including statesman Robert Whalpole.

HarperPerennial Classics brings great works of literature to life in digital format, upholding the highest standards in ebook production and celebrating reading in all its forms. Look for more titles in the HarperPerennial Classics collection to build your digital library.