Death of Robert of Molesme
Robert of Molesme, the revered founder of the Cistercian Order, lies on his deathbed in his private chamber at Molesme Abbey. Surrounded by his monks, he delivers his final words of wisdom and blessin
Setting
The private chamber of Robert of Molesme within Molesme Abbey, a modest yet solemn room with stone walls and a small, high window. The chamber is adjacent to the abbey's chapel, with the faint sounds of monks chanting in the distance.
Characters
Robert of Molesme
primary
An elderly man in his late seventies, gaunt from years of asceticism, with deep-set eyes and a prominent nose. His thin, white hair is cropped short in the monastic tonsure, and his hands, resting on the rough woolen blanket, are veined and frail. His face bears the marks of a life devoted to spiritual rigor, with deep wrinkles that speak of both wisdom and suffering.
Prior
primary
A middle-aged man of slight build with a gaunt face marked by deep-set eyes and prominent cheekbones. His tonsured head reveals pale skin contrasting with his weathered hands. A thin nose and tightly pressed lips give him an ascetic appearance.
Young Monk
secondary
A slender novice in his late teens or early twenties with a clean-shaven face and short, neatly trimmed brown hair, as per monastic custom. His youthful features are softened by an expression of solemn reverence. His hands are delicate, suggesting he came from a scholarly rather than laboring background before entering the abbey.
Acolyte
background
A young man in his late teens to early twenties, slender and of average height, with neatly cropped brown hair. His smooth, pale face is free of blemishes, and his large, dark eyes reflect the candlelight. His hands, though calloused from labor, are delicate in their movements as they cradle the candle.
Dialog
Robert of Molesme
Brethren, do not weep for me, for I go now to the Lord whom I have served with all my heart...
Prior
Father, your light has guided us through many dark valleys. What word would you leave for those who must walk on without you?
Robert of Molesme
Hold fast... to the Rule... and to each other... For where charity... and unity dwell... there God abides...
Prior
Sancte Roberte, ora pro nobis peccatoribus, nunc et in hora mortis nostrae...
Robert of Molesme
The vesper bell... I hear the angels singing it now...
Prior
Go in peace, faithful servant of Christ. May the saints and martyrs welcome you into everlasting habitations.
Robert of Molesme
Amen...