Werd Na Judas Dood De 12E Apostel, translated as “After Judas’ Death, the 12th Apostle,” is a play written by Belgian playwright and poet, Hugo Claus. First performed in 1955, the play tells the story of the aftermath of Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus Christ and his subsequent death.
The play begins with the other 11 apostles grappling with the guilt and shame of Judas’ betrayal. They are torn between their loyalty to Jesus and their anger towards Judas for his treachery. As they try to come to terms with what has happened, they are haunted by the specter of Judas, who appears to them in their dreams and visions.
As the apostles struggle to understand Judas’ actions, they are forced to confront their own doubts and fears. Some of them question their own faith and commitment to Jesus, while others seek solace in prayer and meditation. Through a series of flashbacks and dream sequences, the audience is given insight into the inner turmoil of each apostle as they try to make sense of Judas’ betrayal.
The play is a powerful exploration of guilt, betrayal, and redemption. It challenges the audience to consider the complexities of human nature and the frailty of faith. Through the character of Judas, Claus invites us to examine our own capacity for betrayal and forgiveness, and to confront the darker aspects of our own souls.
Werd Na Judas Dood De 12E Apostel is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged play that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption are timeless and universal, making it a classic of modern Belgian theater. Hugo Claus’ skillful writing and intense character development make this play a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and the power of forgiveness.