'The Cabinet Minister' Summary

The Cabinet Minister is a play by Arthur Wing Pinero that was first performed in 1889. The play tells the story of Sir Robert Chiltern, a rising star in British politics. Chiltern is married to Lady Chiltern, a beautiful and intelligent woman. However, Chiltern's past comes back to haunt him when it is revealed that he accepted a bribe in order to secure a government contract.

Chiltern is faced with a difficult choice: he can either resign from his position as Cabinet Minister and save his marriage, or he can stay in his position and risk losing his wife's love and respect. Chiltern ultimately chooses to resign, but the experience leaves him deeply scarred.

The play begins with Chiltern giving a speech in the House of Commons. He is a rising star in the Liberal Party, and he is seen as a potential future Prime Minister. However, Chiltern's speech is interrupted by a revelation from his wife, Lady Chiltern. She reveals that Chiltern accepted a bribe from a businessman named Baron Arnheim in order to secure a government contract.

Chiltern is shocked and horrified by this revelation. He had always believed that he was a good man, but now he realizes that he has made a terrible mistake. He is faced with a difficult choice: he can either resign from his position as Cabinet Minister and save his marriage, or he can stay in his position and risk losing his wife's love and respect.

Chiltern ultimately chooses to resign. He knows that it is the right thing to do, even though it will cost him his career. He tells his wife that he loves her, and he begs her for forgiveness. Lady Chiltern is initially angry and disappointed, but she eventually comes to understand Chiltern's decision. She forgives him, and they reconcile.

The Cabinet Minister is a gripping political drama that explores the themes of corruption, ambition, and the power of love. It is a classic example of Pinero's work, and it remains one of his most popular plays.

The play is notable for its realistic portrayal of the political world. Pinero was a keen observer of politics, and he used his play to expose the corruption and hypocrisy that he saw in the system. The play also explores the theme of ambition, and it shows how ambition can lead people to make bad decisions.

However, the play is ultimately a story about love. Chiltern's decision to resign is a difficult one, but he makes it because he loves his wife and wants to protect her. The play shows how love can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.