Description
Book SynopsisThis book provides a comprehensive account of the cutlural history of English drama. Drawing upon new empirical research and the latest theoretical models, Shepherd and Womack show how the character of a given theatrical ''age'', as traditionally described, is packed with contradictions and uneven in development. Focusing on key historical moments and modes, they offer chapters on Medieval Theatre, Renaissance Drama, Restoration Comedy, Melodrama, and Naturalism, and conclude with accounts of Post-War British Theatre and the State, and Drama in the Age of Television.
Trade Review"There is much here to stimulate the thinking student and to galvanize the curious into further reading."
Christine Dymkowski, University of LondonTable of ContentsAcknowledgements.
User's Guide.
1. Medieval Theatre.
2. The Beginning of the Story of Drama.
3. Renaissance Drama.
4. The Image of Elizabethan Drama.
5. Restoration Comedy.
6. Bawdy, Manners and the English National Character.
7. Melodrama.
8. The Unacceptable Face of Drama.
9. Naturalism.
10. 'You Make Me Feel Mighty Real': Proper Drama.
11. Post-War British Theatre and the State.
12. Drama in the Age of Television.
Chronological List of Plays.
References.
Index.
