The Mandrake, (Mandragola) by Niccolò Machiavelli (written between 1512 and 1520 and first printed in 1524) is an acclaimed satirical play on the corruption of Italian society written whilst Machiavelli was in exile having plotted against the Medici. The play is alleged to be based on an actual occurrence in 1504.
The play concerns Callimaco's desire to bed Lucrezia, the young and beautiful wife of a elderly fool, Nicia, who, above all else, desires a son and heir. Callimaco, masquerading as a doctor, convinces Nicia to drug Lucrezia with mandrake to increase her fertility, but adds the dire warning that the Mandrake will undoubtedly kill the first man to have intercourse with her. Callimaco helpfully suggests to Nicio that an unwitting-fool be found for this purpose. Lucrezia, is eventually convinced to comply with her husband's wishes and finally allows Callimaco into her bed and thereafter accepts him as her lover on a more permanent basis.
