Defenestration of Prague
Hussite protesters, led by Jan Želivský, storm the New Town Hall in Prague, confronting Catholic town officials. The situation escalates as the protesters, fueled by religious and political grievances
Setting
New Town Hall in Prague, specifically the council chamber where town officials are gathered. The room is filled with tension as Hussite protesters storm the building. The windows are open, letting in the summer heat and the sounds of the angry crowd outside.
Characters
Jan Želivský
primary
A middle-aged man of slender but wiry build, with a gaunt face marked by deep-set, burning eyes that reflect his fervent religious zeal. His dark brown hair is unevenly cut, falling just above his shoulders, and his beard is trimmed short but unkempt. His hands are calloused from years of manual labor before becoming a priest, and he carries himself with the intensity of a man who believes he is doing God's work.
Town Councilor
primary
A middle-aged man with a gaunt face, sharp nose, and thinning grey hair pulled back tightly. His pale complexion contrasts with his dark, sunken eyes, which dart nervously between the protesters and his guards. His hands are slightly trembling, and his posture is rigid with tension.
Hussite Protester
secondary
A stocky, sunburnt man in his late 30s with calloused hands and a wiry beard streaked with grey. His left ear bears an old knife scar, and his nose has been broken at least once. Muscular arms from years of farm work tremble with barely contained rage.
Guard Captain
secondary
A burly, middle-aged man with a weathered face, deep-set eyes, and a thick, graying beard. His muscular build suggests years of military service, and a prominent scar runs across his left cheekbone.
Young Clerk
background
A slender young man in his early twenties, with a pale complexion and dark, neatly trimmed hair. His wide, fearful eyes dart nervously between the Hussite protesters and the Town Councilor. His hands tremble slightly as he clutches a ledger to his chest.
Dialog
Jan Želivský
Thus saith the Lord—your corruption ends today! These walls shall not shield you from divine justice!
Town Councilor
You—you defy the holy Church's authority! The king himself shall hear of this treason!
Hussite Protester
Treason?! You Roman dogs starve our children while you feast! Master Hus’ blood cries out against you!
Jan Želivský
By the blood of the martyrs—cast them out! Let the windows of heaven judge these wolves in sheep’s clothing!
Town Councilor
Guards! In the name of—
Hussite Protester
To the window with them! Let the stones drink their lies!