The Growth of English Drama

by Arnold Wynne

"The Growth of English Drama" by Arnold Wynne is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the development of English drama from its early church roots through to the rise of various dramatic forms, including moralities and interludes. It aims to provide a comprehensive look at early English plays, detailing their plots, characters, and the evolution of theatrical practices. The opening of the book introduces the significance of early church drama and its transition into a more vibrant form of performance. Wynne discusses how early ecclesiastics began incorporating dramatizations into religious practices, such as the "Quem quaeritis?", which laid the groundwork for later forms of drama. He also traces the clumsy efforts to revive classical methods within the sacred realm, leading to a more dynamic storytelling format that thrived amidst ecclesiastical traditions. This sets the stage for the following chapters, which promise to delve deeper into specific genres and influential figures in the growth of English drama.