[3] The story is set in the royal court of an imaginary country and combines elements of tragic farce, fantasy, and moral criticism.

[1] Gombrowicz's Iwona, księżniczka Burgunda was published in 1935 but did not receive its first performance until 1957 when it premiered in Warsaw.

Prince Philipp, bored by the court and its endless ceremonies, chooses Yvonne, an ugly and mute girl, as his fiancée.

His parents, Queen Margarete and King Ignatz, are appalled at the engagement and the prince's choice is mocked by the courtiers.

Yvonne's refusal to speak, despite repeated attempts to make her break her silence, causes even more provocation.