What is florante at laura?

Florante at Laura is a 19th-century awit (poem) written by Francisco Balagtas, considered one of the masterpieces of Philippine literature. The story is a romantic epic that also explores themes of morality, injustice, and the struggle against tyranny.

The poem tells the story of Florante, a Duke's son and a general in the army of Albania, and Laura, the princess of Albania and Florante's beloved. Florante is falsely accused of treason and imprisoned. While imprisoned, he laments his fate and expresses his love for Laura.

The poem also features Aladin, a Persian prince who is also suffering from heartbreak and injustice. He rescues Florante and they become allies. Aladin is in love with Flerida, who also faces trials and tribulations.

Through the intertwining stories of these characters, Balagtas critiques the social and political conditions of his time, particularly the corruption and abuse of power by the Spanish colonial authorities. The poem explores themes of love, sacrifice, betrayal and redemption, and emphasizes the importance of virtue and justice. The setting involves fantastical and exotic locations blended with hints of 19th-century Philippines, adding a layer of allegory.