Death of Robert of Molesme
The revered abbot Robert of Molesme lies on his deathbed in the infirmary of Molesme Abbey, surrounded by his devoted monks. The brothers pray fervently, their voices a quiet murmur, as they witness t
Setting
Molesme Abbey's infirmary, a small, austere room within the monastery. The walls are made of rough-hewn stone, with a single narrow window allowing a sliver of light. A simple wooden crucifix hangs above the modest cot where Robert lies. The room is sparse, reflecting the monastic vow of poverty.
Characters
Robert of Molesme
primary
An elderly man in his late 70s, gaunt from years of asceticism and recent illness. His white hair is thinning, framing a deeply lined face marked by decades of devotion. His hands, resting atop the rough woolen blanket, are bony with prominent veins. His sunken eyes still hold a piercing clarity despite his weakened state.
Brother Alberic
primary
A man in his late 50s with a tall, gaunt frame that speaks of years of asceticism. His deeply lined face bears the marks of both age and devotion, with piercing gray eyes that seem to see beyond the mortal realm. His tonsured scalp shows wisps of white hair, and his hands are large and work-worn, yet gentle in their movements.
Brother Stephen
secondary
A young monk in his early twenties, slender with a pale complexion from years spent indoors. His hands are delicate, more suited to copying manuscripts than manual labor. His tonsured head reveals a faint scar above his left ear—perhaps a childhood injury—and his light brown eyebrows are drawn together in distress.
Brother Gerard
secondary
A middle-aged monk of slight build, with deep-set eyes shadowed by fatigue and sorrow. His gaunt face bears the marks of asceticism, with prominent cheekbones and a thin, pale mouth. His hands, though trembling, move with practiced precision as he tends to the candles.
Brother Lucien
background
An elderly monk with deep-set, sorrowful eyes and a frail, hunched frame. His hands are gnarled from years of labor and prayer, clutching a well-worn rosary. His thinning white hair is barely visible beneath his cowl.
Dialog
Robert of Molesme
Alberic... thou must tend the Lord's vineyard as I have shown thee... for the weeds of compromise choke even the holiest soil...
Brother Alberic
As the psalmist says: 'The Lord hath chosen Zion, he hath desired it for his habitation'. Your work shall not perish while breath remains in us.
Robert of Molesme
The Benedictine rule... unadorned... unbroken... Promise me this harvest will not rot in earthly riches...
Brother Alberic
By the True Cross I swear it - our plows shall till only the poorest earth, our walls rise only to heaven's glory.