We’re excited to announce the publication of The Enemy of the State by Simon Bowler, now available through Gitelman & Good Publishers! This powerful play transports audiences back to 399 BC, where a high-stakes legal battle in ancient Athens brings timeless questions about justice, democracy, and power to the forefront.
A Legal Battle in Classical Athens
Set during the trial of the philosopher Socrates, The Enemy of the State dramatizes one of the most infamous legal cases in history. Socrates is put on trial for heresy and corrupting the youth, but as the trial unfolds, it becomes clear that he is not only defending himself—he is putting the newly restored democracy of Athens on trial. In this courtroom drama, Socrates challenges the very foundations of Athenian society, asking the citizens to question the meaning of justice, morality, and governance.
With sharp, engaging dialogue and a tense atmosphere, Simon Bowler brings to life the intellectual and political tensions of ancient Greece in a way that resonates with modern audiences. As Socrates battles for his life, the play forces us to consider whether truth can survive in a world driven by politics, fear, and self-interest.
Perfect for High School Drama Programs
Though the play is rooted in historical events, The Enemy of the State offers a dynamic and challenging production opportunity for high school drama programs. The play’s themes of justice, free speech, and civic duty are as relevant today as they were in ancient Athens, providing an excellent springboard for classroom discussions. With a strong ensemble of characters and a riveting story, The Enemy of the State invites students to explore the complexities of ancient history while connecting those ideas to their own lives and experiences.
Meet the Author: Simon Bowler
Simon Bowler is an award-winning writer, producer, and director with a distinguished career spanning television, film, and theater. After graduating from the University of Westminster in London with a degree in Film and TV, Simon produced for the BBC and BBC World Service Television. He went on to create and direct feature documentaries for Channel 4, The World Bank, and Friends of the Earth. In the U.S., Simon produced the acclaimed mockumentary Man of the Year and wrote for major networks including ABC, PBS, Discovery, Oxygen, Bravo, and Fox.
Simon has received numerous accolades for his work in both theater and film. His plays, including Judgment of the Eye, The Enemy of the State, and Marlowe Part One and Two, have won several awards, and his screenplays have garnered top honors at prestigious competitions. His recognition includes the Writemovies Play Writing Award, the Innovasian Writing Initiative Grand Prize, and honorable mentions in the Dramatists Guild and New Works of Merit initiatives, among many others.
We are honored to include Simon’s The Enemy of the State in our catalog and look forward to sharing his extraordinary work with drama programs across the country.
Get Your Copy Today!
Whether you’re a high school drama teacher looking for a new production or a theater enthusiast eager to explore a riveting historical drama, The Enemy of the State is a must-read. Download your copy today from our website, and be sure to follow us on social media for the latest updates on new publications and author features.
