Büchner’s fragmentary play, considered a forerunner of expressionism, tells the story of Private Franz Woyzeck’s tragedy in a quick succession of short scenes. Adapted from a translation by Victor Price, this drama—published posthumously in 1879 but not performed until 1913—powerfully depicts the social and economic injustices that lead Marie, Woyzeck’s common-law wife, to have an affair with the Drum Major. Her subsequent murder by Woyzeck, who knifes her in a jealous frenzy, is based on an actual criminal case. Produced by the Open University. (49 minutes)