Synopses & Reviews
An accessible and lively introduction to the history of the stage from 1660 to 1900.
Review
'well-executed and clear.' Times Literary Supplement
Synopsis
This five-part introduction to English theatre, enriched throughout by illustrative quotations and carefully selected visual images, guides the reader through the turbulent history of the stage from the restoration of Charles II to the death of Queen Victoria. A lively read, the book features familiar names and plays alongside the forgotten and neglected. This is a reading of dramatic history that keeps constantly in mind the material circumstances that produced, and sometimes oppressed, a supremely popular theatre. Ideal for students, teachers and lecturers.
Synopsis
Must-have guides designed to introduce students and teachers to key topics and authors.
Synopsis
This introduction to English theatre, including illustrative quotations and carefully selected visual images, guides the reader through the turbulent history of the stage from the restoration of Charles II to the death of Queen Victoria. A lively read, the book is ideal for students, teachers and lecturers alike.
About the Author
Peter Thomson is Emeritus Professor of Drama, University of Exeter.
Table of Contents
Preface; Part I. The theatre restored: 1660-1700: 1. The material circumstance; 2. The drama; 3. Actors and acting; Part II. The theatre reformed: 1700-1737: 4. The material circumstance; 5. The drama; 6. Actors and acting; Part III. The theatre tamed: 1737-1789: 7. The material circumstance; 8. The drama; 9. Actors and acting; Part IV. Theatre in the age of reform: 1789-1843: 10. The material circumstance; 11. The drama; 12. Actors and acting; Part V. The theatre industry: 1843-1901: 13. The material circumstance; 14. The drama; 15. Actors and acting; Index of plays.