Why the Chimes Rang: A Play in One Act: Play Guide and Free Edition
Why the Chimes Rang: A Play in One Act: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
Why the Chimes Rang: A Play in One Act is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for McFadden, Elizabeth A. (Elizabeth Apthorp) (1875–1961); Alden, Raymond MacDonald (1873–1924).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Why the Chimes Rang: A Play in One Act" by Elizabeth Apthorp McFadden is a theatrical adaptation of a story by Raymond MacDonald Alden, set likely during the early 20th century. This play revolves around themes of selflessness, charity, and the spirit of Christmas, portraying how true gifts come from the heart rather than material wealth. The setting features a humble peasant's hut, which contrasts with the grandeur of the nearby cathedral town where significant events transpire. The narrative follows Holger and Steen, two peasant boys eagerly anticipating the Christmas service at the cathedral, a place of great significance associated with a miraculous event known as the ringing of the chimes. However, when their parents are unable to take them, Holger decides to stay behind to care for an old woman seeking refuge in their home. As the boys' uncle Bertel departs for the service, Holger's unwavering compassion leads him to prioritize the old woman's needs over his own desire to attend the festivities. The climax centers on Holger's simple yet profound gift of two pennies he wishes to offer to the Christ-child, ultimately resulting in the long-awaited chimes ringing out, signifying the acceptance of true love and selflessness where it counts the most. The play eloquently conveys the lesson that genuine kindness and charity hold the greatest value.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Why the Chimes Rang: A Play in One Act
- Author credits: McFadden, Elizabeth A. (Elizabeth Apthorp) (1875–1961); Alden, Raymond MacDonald (1873–1924)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Drama
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Children & Young Adult Reading
- Category: Plays/Films/Dramas
- One Act Plays
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
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