Book excerpt: "Proserpine & Midas" is a play written by Mary Shelley, best known for her classic novel "Frankenstein." Although Mary Shelley is primarily recognized for her contributions to Gothic fiction, she also wrote poetry and drama throughout her literary career. "Proserpine & Midas" is a two-act verse drama that draws upon classical mythology for its subject matter. Proserpine, also known as Persephone, is a figure from Greek mythology who was abducted by the god of the underworld, Hades, and became the queen of the underworld. Midas, on the other hand, is known for his golden touch, a gift granted to him by the god Dionysus. In Shelley's play, the characters of Proserpine and Midas are brought together in a dramatic exploration of themes such as power, desire, and the consequences of one's actions. The play likely reflects Shelley's interest in mythology and her engagement with the literary and philosophical trends of her time.