The preface to William Wilfred Campbell's play, "Morning: A Tragedy in Five Acts," sets the stage for a dramatic exploration of modern society. The play is not based on a historical event, but its themes are relevant to contemporary society. The central question revolves around the belief in God and the impact it has on human life, actions, and ideals. The play also examines the conflict between worldly cynicism and faith, with the fate of modern civilization hanging in the balance. The dramatis personae introduces the key characters in the play, including Leonatus, a noble and virtuous merchant who is pitted against the scheming and envious Vulpinus. Other characters include Protinus, Varras, Morning, and a cast of priests, lords, merchants, and members of the mob. The story of "Morning: A Tragedy in Five Acts" revolves around the struggle between the ideals represented by Leonatus and Vulpinus, and their impact on society. The play delves into themes of ethics, institutions, and the search for hope and faith in a modern world. At its core, the play seeks to address the question of which ideal will ultimately prevail in society: the cynicism of Vulpinus or the faith and hope embodied by Leonatus.
