Cornelian dilemma


A Cornelian dilemma, also spelt Corneillian dilemma, is a dilemma in which someone is obliged to choose one out of a range of options, all of which reveal a detrimental effect on themselves or someone near them. In classical drama, it will typically involve the character experiencing an inner conflict, forcing them to choose between love and honour or inclination and duty. The dilemma is named after French dramatist Pierre Corneille, in whose play Le Cid Rodrigue, the protagonist based on Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, is torn between two desires: that of the love of Chimène, or avenging his family, who have been wronged by Chimène's father. Rodrigue either seeks revenge to avenge his father or loses the honour.

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