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Plays/Films/Dramas
Browse Plays/Films/Dramas as a public-domain reading list on Rivro, with free classics, authors, subjects, and related books.
Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare
Romeo and Juliet
"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written between 1591 and 1595. Two young lovers from feuding Italian families meet and fall secretly in love in Verona. Their forbidden romance leads them to marry in secret with a friar's help, hoping to unite their warring households. But family hatred, violent duels, and tragic misunderstandings threaten to destroy their bond. This tale of star-crossed lovers has become the archetypal story of young love and remains one of Shakespeare's most frequently performed plays.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare
"The Complete Works of William Shakespeare" by William Shakespeare is a comprehensive collection containing all of Shakespeare's plays and poems. This standard volume gathers the playwright's entire output, including histories, tragedies, and comedies that have shaped literature for centuries. Some editions feature collaborative works with other writers, though their authorship remains debated. Published by numerous academic presses and major publishers, these collected editions have become prized possessions for book collectors, often released in luxurious leather-bound formats that preserve Shakespeare's timeless literary legacy.
A Doll's House : a play
Henrik Ibsen
A Doll's House : a play
"A Doll's House : a play by Henrik Ibsen" is a three-act play written in 1879. Set in a Norwegian town, it follows Nora Helmer, a married woman navigating life in a male-dominated society where opportunities for self-fulfillment are scarce. When a figure from her past threatens to expose a secret financial transgression, Nora faces a crisis that challenges everything she knows about her marriage and identity. The play sparked outraged controversy upon its premiere and remains one of the most performed works in theater history.
The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People
Oscar Wilde
The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People
"The Importance of Being Earnest: A Trivial Comedy for Serious People" by Oscar Wilde is a play first performed in 1895. Two young gentlemen lead double lives, each pretending to be named Ernest to escape social duties and win the hearts of their beloveds. Filled with sharp wit and clever wordplay, the farcical comedy gently mocks Victorian society through memorable characters including the formidable Lady Bracknell. The play parodies theatrical conventions while exploring themes of identity, deception, and the absurdities of proper society.
Oedipus King of Thebes Translated into English Rhyming Verse with Explanatory Notes
Sophocles
Oedipus King of Thebes Translated into English Rhyming Verse with Explanatory Notes
"Oedipus King of Thebes" by Sophocles is an Athenian tragedy written around 429 BC. When a plague ravages Thebes, King Oedipus vows to find and punish the murderer of the previous king, Laius. As he investigates, the blind prophet Tiresias warns him to abandon his search. But Oedipus persists, unaware that his quest for truth will uncover devastating secrets about his own identity and past—secrets connected to an ancient prophecy about patricide and incest.
Hamlet
William Shakespeare
Hamlet
"Hamlet" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written between 1599 and 1601. Set in Denmark, the play follows Prince Hamlet as he grapples with his father's sudden death and his mother's hasty marriage to his uncle Claudius. When a ghost resembling the late king appears and reveals a terrible secret about murder and betrayal, Hamlet vows revenge. But uncertainty, madness—feigned or real—and deadly court intrigue complicate his mission in this powerful exploration of vengeance, mortality, and human nature.
The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus From the Quarto of 1604
Christopher Marlowe
The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus From the Quarto of 1604
"The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus" by Christopher Marlowe is an Elizabethan tragedy written in the late 16th century and first performed around 1594. A scholar sells his soul to the devil in exchange for magical powers, facilitated by the demon Mephistopheles. The play follows Faustus's rise as a magician and his ultimate downfall as damnation approaches. Blending classical tragedy with Elizabethan drama, it explores ambition, the limits of knowledge, Christian theology, and Renaissance humanism. The work survives in two distinct versions with ongoing scholarly debate about their significance.
Lysistrata
Aristophanes
Lysistrata
"Lysistrata" by Aristophanes is an ancient Greek comedy first staged in 411 BCE. When the Peloponnesian War drags on endlessly, an Athenian woman named Lysistrata devises a bold plan: convince women from all warring Greek city-states to withhold sex from their husbands until peace is negotiated. Leading a rebellion that includes seizing the Acropolis and its treasury, Lysistrata sparks a battle between the sexes that tests whether desire or duty will prevail in this audacious comedy about war and power.
Faust [part 1]. Translated Into English in the Original Metres
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Faust [part 1]. Translated Into English in the Original Metres
"Faust [part 1]" by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a tragic play published in 1808. When the Devil wagers with God that he can corrupt the striving scholar Faust, a fateful pact is sealed in blood. Mephistopheles promises to serve Faust on Earth in exchange for his soul—but only if he can offer a moment so perfect that Faust wishes to stop striving forever. What follows is a dark journey of seduction, betrayal, and tragedy involving the innocent Gretchen, whose fate becomes entangled with Faust's dangerous bargain.
A Midsummer Night's Dream
William Shakespeare
A Midsummer Night's Dream
"A Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare is a comedy play written in about 1595 or 1596. Set in ancient Athens, the story weaves together multiple plots surrounding the wedding of Duke Theseus and Amazon Queen Hippolyta. Four young Athenian lovers become entangled in romantic confusion, while amateur actors rehearse a play for the wedding celebration. When both groups wander into an enchanted forest, mischievous fairies manipulate their affairs with magical potions, creating chaos under the moonlight as the fairy king and queen pursue their own domestic quarrel.
Pygmalion
Bernard Shaw
Pygmalion
"Pygmalion" by Bernard Shaw is a play written in 1912. When phonetics professor Henry Higgins boasts he can transform a Cockney flower girl into a duchess simply by teaching her proper speech, Colonel Pickering takes the bet. Eliza Doolittle arrives at Higgins's door seeking lessons to improve her prospects, setting in motion a social experiment that will test class boundaries and personal transformation. This witty comedy became Shaw's most popular work, later inspiring the musical "My Fair Lady."
The Works of William Shakespeare [Cambridge Edition] [Vol. 3 of 9]
William Shakespeare
The Works of William Shakespeare [Cambridge Edition] [Vol. 3 of 9]
"The Works of William Shakespeare [Cambridge Edition] [Vol. 3 of 9]" by Shakespeare is a collection of plays written in the early 17th century. This volume includes prominent works such as "The Taming of the Shrew," "All's Well That Ends Well," "Twelfth Night; or, What You Will," and "The Winter's Tale," showcasing Shakespeare's mastery in comedy and drama. The likely topics revolve around themes of love, power dynamics in relationships, and societal expectations, along with richly drawn characters who navigate the complexities of courtship and familial duty. At the start of the volume, the opening scenes of "The Taming of the Shrew" introduce Christopher Sly, a drunken tinker who is the subject of a playful ruse by a lord and his servants, who seek to convince him that he is, in fact, a nobleman. This leads into the main narrative that focuses on the tempestuous relationship between Petruchio and Katharina, highlighting their initial conflicts and fiery exchanges. Meanwhile, Lucentio arrives in Padua, infatuated with Katharina's sister Bianca, setting the stage for a web of courtship entanglements influenced by the shrewish elder sister and her suitors. The juxtaposition of Sly’s comedic predicament and the serious romantic pursuits establishes a fascinating interplay between class, gender roles, and the dynamics of love.
Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare
Romeo and Juliet
"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written between 1591 and 1595. Two young lovers from feuding Italian families fall passionately for each other in Verona, defying the bitter hatred between the Montagues and Capulets. Their secret marriage, orchestrated with the help of Friar Laurence, becomes entangled in violence, misunderstanding, and fate. As tensions escalate and blood is shed, the young couple faces impossible choices that will test the boundaries of love and loyalty in this archetypal tale of star-crossed romance.
Plays
Susan Glaspell
Plays
"Plays by Susan Glaspell" is a collection of dramatic works written during the early 20th century, featuring notable titles such as "Trifles," "The Outside," and "The Verge." The plays often explore themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and human psychology, showcasing the nuanced struggles of women in a male-dominated world. Through rich character development, Glaspell highlights the emotional landscapes of her protagonists, inviting contemplation about the nature of truth and justice. At the start of "Trifles," the scene is set in a disordered farmhouse kitchen, where a group of men, including the county attorney and sheriff, arrive to investigate the murder of John Wright, a domineering husband. Meanwhile, the wives of the men, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, enter slowly and begin to observe the seemingly trivial details of the kitchen. While the men dismiss these as unimportant, the women uncover clues about the deceased and the potential motive for murder, particularly through their empathy for Mrs. Wright's situation. This initial exploration of domestic space lays the groundwork for a powerful commentary on the often-overlooked significance of women's experiences and insights.
Macbeth
William Shakespeare
Macbeth
"Macbeth" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy first performed in 1606. When a Scottish general receives a prophecy from three witches that he will become king, his ambition ignites. Spurred by his wife, Macbeth murders his way to the throne through violent betrayal. But seizing power proves easier than keeping it. Consumed by guilt and paranoia, the new king descends into tyranny and madness, committing further murders to secure his position. This dark exploration of ambition's corrupting force remains Shakespeare's shortest and most psychologically intense tragedy.
The Tempest The Works of William Shakespeare [Cambridge Edition] [9 vols.]
William Shakespeare
The Tempest The Works of William Shakespeare [Cambridge Edition] [9 vols.]
"The Tempest" by William Shakespeare is a play written in 1610-1611. On a remote island, the exiled magician Prospero lives with his daughter Miranda and two servants—a monster and a spirit. When a ship carrying his treacherous brother passes nearby, Prospero conjures a storm that strands the passengers on his shores. He then sets in motion an intricate plan involving magic, romance, and manipulation to reclaim what was stolen from him, exploring themes of revenge, forgiveness, and redemption.
The Sea-Gull
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
The Sea-Gull
"The Sea-Gull" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a play written in 1895. Four characters clash over art and love at a country estate: a fading actress, her aspiring playwright son, a famous writer, and a young woman who dreams of the stage. Romantic entanglements intertwine with artistic ambitions as characters speak in subtext rather than direct declarations. The opening night in 1896 was a notorious disaster, but a later production became a triumph that transformed Russian theatre forever.
As You Like It
William Shakespeare
As You Like It
"As You Like It" by William Shakespeare is a pastoral comedy written in 1599. When Rosalind flees her uncle's court seeking safety, she ventures into the Forest of Arden with her cousin Celia. There they discover a world of memorable characters, including the melancholy philosopher Jaques, who delivers the famous speech "All the world's a stage." In this enchanted forest setting, persecution gives way to possibility as Rosalind navigates disguise, love, and the contrast between courtly life and country existence.
Riders to the Sea
J. M. (John Millington) Synge
Riders to the Sea
"Riders to the Sea" by J. M. Synge is a one-act tragedy first performed in 1904. Set on the Aran Islands off the Irish coast, the play depicts a family's hopeless struggle against the relentless cruelty of the sea. Maurya, a grief-stricken mother who has already lost her husband and five sons to drowning, faces the unbearable possibility of losing her last remaining son. Written in the poetic dialect of rural Ireland, this work explores themes of fate, tradition, and acceptance in the face of inevitable loss.
Hedda Gabler
Henrik Ibsen
Hedda Gabler
"Hedda Gabler" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1890 and premiered in 1891. It dramatizes the story of Hedda, a general's daughter trapped in a loveless marriage and desperate for control over her own life. When her husband's academic rival—a former lover—reappears with his rehabilitated life and brilliant manuscript, Hedda's jealousy and manipulations set tragic events in motion. As she schemes to influence the fates of those around her, she finds herself increasingly cornered by circumstances and a sinister family friend who threatens her freedom.
Love's Labour's Lost
William Shakespeare
Love's Labour's Lost
"Love's Labour's Lost" by William Shakespeare is a comedy written in the mid-1590s. The King of Navarre and three companions vow to avoid women for three years to pursue study and fasting. Their oath crumbles when the Princess of France and her ladies arrive, sparking romantic entanglements. Through disguises, mistaken identities, and witty wordplay, the men pursue the women—only to face an unconventional ending when sudden news forces the ladies to demand a year's proof of devotion before any weddings can proceed.
Motion pictures, 1940-1949 : $b Catalog of copyright entries
Library of Congress. Copyright Office
Motion pictures, 1940-1949 : $b Catalog of copyright entries
"Motion Pictures, 1940-1949: Catalog of Copyright Entries" is a cumulative catalog of copyright entries related to motion pictures, likely compiled in the mid-20th century. The work documents the registered films during this decade, aiming to provide an organized record for legal professionals, researchers, and film enthusiasts. The book serves as an extensive record of motion picture production in the United States, highlighting titles, copyright claimants, and publication details. The opening of the catalog outlines its purpose and structure, explaining how it lists films registered for copyright between 1940 and 1949. It offers a detailed introduction to the contents, including information on unpublished and published works, as well as specifics on how readers can utilize the catalog’s entries—such as through main titles, production statements, and copyright identifiers. The introduction emphasizes the importance of preserving a historical record of motion pictures during a transformative decade in the film industry.
The Book of the Courtier
Baldassarre Castiglione
The Book of the Courtier
"The Book of the Courtier" by conte Baldassarre Castiglione is a philosophical dialogue composed between 1508 and 1528. Set over four evenings at the Renaissance court of Urbino, the work presents courtiers debating what makes an ideal gentleman worthy of serving a prince. They discuss noble rank, physical prowess, artistic knowledge, proper speech, and the mysterious quality of *sprezzatura*—a studied nonchalance that conceals effort. The book also explores humor, love, and the nature of the perfect court lady, creating a portrait of a vanishing world.
The Grand Inquisitor
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
The Grand Inquisitor
"The Grand Inquisitor" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a story within a story contained in his 1880 novel "The Brothers Karamazov". In this philosophical tale, Christ returns to Earth during the Spanish Inquisition and is arrested. The Grand Inquisitor confronts Him, arguing that the Church has improved upon Christ's work by rejecting human freedom in favor of bread, miracles, and earthly authority. Christ remains silent throughout, responding only with a mysterious kiss.
Plays by Anton Chekhov, Second Series
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
Plays by Anton Chekhov, Second Series
"Plays by Anton Chekhov, Second Series" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of dramatic works created during the late 19th century, showcasing the unique style and depth of one of Russia's most celebrated playwrights. This volume includes several notable plays such as "The Bear," "The Proposal," and "The Cherry Orchard," among others. The overarching themes of his works often revolve around the complexities of human relationships, social issues, and the often absurd nature of everyday life, providing insights into the characters' struggles and desires. The opening portion of the collection features a detailed introduction by the translator, Julius West, who discusses the significance of Chekhov's contributions to theatre. It outlines Chekhov's evolution as a playwright, highlighting how his early works laid the foundation for the deep psychological character studies and subtle humor found in his later plays. In particular, the introduction mentions the dramatic study "On the High Road," where characters like Tihon, a bar proprietor, and Bortsov, a troubled landowner, navigate themes of despair and addiction within a tense atmosphere. It sets the stage for the exploration of complex character dynamics, paving the way for the exploration of social issues and human emotional depth that Chekhov is renowned for.
The Duchess of Malfi
John Webster
The Duchess of Malfi
"The Duchess of Malfi" by John Webster is a Jacobean revenge tragedy written in 1612–1613. When a widowed duchess secretly marries her steward Antonio against her brothers' wishes, she sets in motion a devastating chain of events. Her twin brother Ferdinand and the Cardinal, desperate to control her and protect their inheritance, employ the malcontent spy Bosola to watch her every move. What begins as a forbidden love story descends into a nightmarish tragedy of vengeance, madness, and murder that destroys them all.
Motion pictures, 1912-1939 : $b Catalog of copyright entries
Library of Congress. Copyright Office
Motion pictures, 1912-1939 : $b Catalog of copyright entries
"Motion Pictures, 1912-1939: Catalog of Copyright Entries" is a comprehensive reference work that details copyright registrations for motion pictures, compiled during the mid-20th century. The catalog covers works registered between 1912 and 1939, providing an essential resource for scholars, professionals, and enthusiasts of film history. The primary topic of this work is to chronicle the details of registered motion pictures during that period, including titles, production companies, and copyright information. The opening of this catalog begins with a preface that outlines its purpose and structure. It explains that the catalog lists films registered in the Copyright Office within specific classes, providing an index of films along with relevant copyright information such as titles, descriptive details, and names of copyright claimants. The catalog emphasizes the importance of tracking these registrations to meet the needs of various stakeholders, including legal professionals and researchers. The extensive list of films begins immediately afterward, suggesting a thorough and exhaustive record of cinematic works from this pivotal era in film history.
Shakespearean Tragedy: Lectures on Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth
A. C. (Andrew Cecil) Bradley
Shakespearean Tragedy: Lectures on Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth
"Shakespearean Tragedy: Lectures on Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth" by A.C. Bradley is a scholarly examination of key works by the renowned playwright William Shakespeare, likely written in the early 20th century. The text consists of a series of lectures that analyze the essence and structure of Shakespearean tragedy, focusing specifically on four of his most famous plays. The author delves into the nature of tragedy as presented by Shakespeare, discussing themes such as character, moral order, and the existential struggles faced by the protagonists. The opening of the book introduces Bradley's intent to explore the fundamental characteristics of Shakespearean tragedy without delving into the playwright’s biography or his position in literary history. The author emphasizes the significance of dramatic appreciation and understanding the internal workings of the plays to foster enjoyment and comprehension among readers. He outlines his approach, indicating that the lectures will not only highlight the distinctive tragic elements in plays such as "Hamlet," "Othello," "King Lear," and "Macbeth" but also provide insights into the actions and motivations of the central characters. Through this analytical lens, Bradley aims to enhance the reader's engagement with these iconic tragedies.
Faust: Der Tragödie erster Teil
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Faust: Der Tragödie erster Teil
"Faust: Der Tragödie erster Teil" by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a tragedy published in 1808. The renowned scholar Dr. Heinrich Faust, disillusioned with knowledge and unable to enjoy life, makes a wager with the devil Mephistopheles. Transformed into a young man, Faust embarks on a journey that leads to a passionate affair with the innocent Margarete, called Gretchen. Their relationship spirals into tragedy, bringing death and destruction to those around them, while Mephistopheles schemes to win Faust's soul.
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 2
E. K. (Edmund Kerchever) Chambers
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 2
"The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 2" by E. K. Chambers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the vibrant theatrical scene of the Elizabethan era, detailing various acting companies and the intricacies of performance culture during that time. It primarily focuses on the classification and history of theatrical companies and their performances in London from 1558 to 1616. At the start of the volume, the author introduces the framework for examining the theatrical companies of the period, discussing the dominance of boy companies in early Elizabethan drama. The introduction highlights how the Children of Paul’s, among others, played a significant role in court performances, particularly before adult companies found a firm footing. Chambers sets the stage for a detailed chronicle of various acting troupes and the evolution of performance spaces, hinting at the competitive nature of this theatrical landscape and the shifts in popularity between child and adult performers throughout the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
Uncle Vanya: Scenes from Country Life in Four Acts
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
Uncle Vanya: Scenes from Country Life in Four Acts
"Uncle Vanya: Scenes from Country Life in Four Acts" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a play first published in 1897. When an elderly professor and his beautiful young wife visit a rural estate, two men fall under her spell while confronting their provincial disappointments. The estate manager Vanya has sacrificed years supporting the professor's career, while his niece Sonya harbors unspoken feelings for the local doctor. Crisis erupts when the professor announces plans to sell the estate—their home—threatening to upend their carefully managed existence.
Julius Caesar
William Shakespeare
Julius Caesar
"Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare is a historical tragedy written and first performed in 1599. The play dramatizes the conspiracy to assassinate the Roman dictator Julius Caesar and the civil war that follows. Though named after Caesar, the work centers on Brutus, whose struggle between personal loyalty and public duty drives the narrative. As conspirators strike and political rhetoric inflames the masses, the play explores ambition, power, and the fragility of republican government. Shakespeare draws a tense portrait of political morality where noble intentions collide with devastating consequences.
An Enemy of the People
Henrik Ibsen
An Enemy of the People
"An Enemy of the People" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1882 that explores the clash between truth and societal pressure. Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers dangerous contamination in his town's new spa baths and decides to expose the threat to public health. His decision triggers fierce opposition from local leaders, including his own brother, who fear economic ruin. As the community turns against him, Stockmann faces professional and personal consequences for challenging the establishment and refusing to compromise his principles.
Sir Thomas More
Unknown
Sir Thomas More
"Sir Thomas More" by William Shakespeare is an Elizabethan play written in the late 16th century, dramatizing events from the life of Thomas More, who became Lord Chancellor under Henry VIII. The play explores themes of obedience to authority and individual conscience through three key episodes: More's intervention during the anti-immigrant riots of Ill May Day 1517, scenes from his private life revealing his character, and his principled defiance of the king that leads to his execution. The manuscript contains a handwritten revision attributed to Shakespeare.
R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots) A Fantastic Melodrama in Three Acts and an Epilogue
Karel Čapek
R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots) A Fantastic Melodrama in Three Acts and an Epilogue
"R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots)" by Karel Čapek is a science fiction play written in 1920. It introduced the word "robot" to the English language. The play is set in a factory that produces artificial workers from synthetic organic matter—living beings of flesh and blood who serve humanity. When Helena arrives to advocate for robot liberation, she encounters a world transformed by these artificial beings. But the very universality of robots may present an unforeseen danger to humanity itself.
Cyrano de Bergerac
Edmond Rostand
Cyrano de Bergerac
"Cyrano de Bergerac" by Edmond Rostand is a play written in 1897. This verse drama tells the story of a brilliant swordsman and poet cursed with an enormous nose that makes him doubt his worthiness of love. Though he adores his beautiful cousin Roxane, Cyrano believes his appearance bars him from her affection. When Roxane falls for the handsome but tongue-tied Christian, Cyrano agrees to help—writing eloquent love letters in Christian's name, sacrificing his own heart for another man's romance.
The Alchemist
Ben Jonson
The Alchemist
"The Alchemist" by Ben Jonson is a comedy first performed in 1610. When a plague forces a London gentleman to flee the city, his scheming butler transforms the empty house into a den of fraud. Teaming with a conman and a prostitute, he preys on the greed and ambitions of eager victims—a gambling clerk, a wealthy nobleman seeking the philosopher's stone, and religious zealots hoping to turn metal into gold. As deceptions multiply and schemes collide, the swindlers' elaborate house of cards grows dangerously unstable.
Salomé: A Tragedy in One Act
Oscar Wilde
Salomé: A Tragedy in One Act
"Salomé: A Tragedy in One Act" by Oscar Wilde is a one-act tragedy written in 1891 and first published in French in 1893. The play depicts the biblical story of Salome, stepdaughter of Herod Antipas, who becomes obsessed with the imprisoned prophet Jokanaan (John the Baptist). When he rejects her advances, she performs the infamous dance of the seven veils, leading to a cascade of fatal consequences. Banned in Britain for decades due to its depiction of biblical characters, the play scandalized audiences and inspired Richard Strauss's renowned 1905 opera.
Macbeth
William Shakespeare
Macbeth
"Macbeth" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy first performed in 1606. When a Scottish general receives a prophecy from three witches that he will become king, his ambition awakens. Spurred by his wife, Macbeth murders King Duncan and seizes the throne. But power corrupts absolutely—consumed by guilt and paranoia, he commits more murders to secure his position, descending into tyranny and madness. This dark exploration of ambition's destructive force remains Shakespeare's shortest and most psychologically intense tragedy.
The Complete Poetic and Dramatic Works of Robert Browning Cambridge Edition
Robert Browning
The Complete Poetic and Dramatic Works of Robert Browning Cambridge Edition
"The Complete Poetic and Dramatic Works of Robert Browning" by Robert Browning is a comprehensive collection of poetry and drama written during the mid-19th century. This compilation includes Browning's entire body of work, showcasing his innovative form of dramatic monologue and deeply psychological characterizations. The collection likely appeals to readers interested in exploring complex themes of human nature, morality, and the intricacies of the human psyche, often conveyed through rich imagery and vivid character portrayals. The opening of the collection features a biographical sketch that outlines Browning's early life and influences, portraying him as a poet deeply shaped by his family and literary experiences. It details his formative years, highlighting his voracious reading habits and early attempts at writing poetry, which began as imitations of his contemporaries like Byron and Shelley. Furthermore, it introduces his first published work, "Pauline," and reflects upon the journey of his literary career, offering insight into Browning's philosophical struggles and the dualities of his personal and artistic life. The introduction sets the stage for the complexities and depth that define Browning's work throughout this extensive collection.
Plays of Sophocles: Oedipus the King; Oedipus at Colonus; Antigone
Sophocles
Plays of Sophocles: Oedipus the King; Oedipus at Colonus; Antigone
"Plays of Sophocles: Oedipus the King; Oedipus at Colonus; Antigone" by Sophocles is a collection of classic Greek tragedies likely written in the 5th century BC. The central themes explore fate, free will, and the tragic consequences of human actions, revolving mainly around the lives of Oedipus and his family, highlighting his fall from grace and the ensuing curses that plague his lineage. The opening of "Oedipus the King" sets the stage in Thebes, where King Oedipus learns about a devastating plague afflicting his city. As he vows to find the cause, he is determined to uncover the truth, leading him down a path of self-discovery and horrifying realizations about his identity and past. The characters introduced, including the priest, Creon, and the blind seer Teiresias, foreshadow the tragic unraveling of Oedipus's life, particularly as themes of hubris and fate begin to prevail, laying the groundwork for the unfolding tragedy. The pleads of the Theban citizens highlight the desperation of those under Oedipus’s reign, marking him as both a capable but ultimately doomed leader.
The London Mercury, Vol. I, Nos. 1-6, November 1919 to April 1920
Various
The London Mercury, Vol. I, Nos. 1-6, November 1919 to April 1920
"The London Mercury, Vol. I, Nos. 1-6, November 1919 to April 1920" by Various is a collection of literary essays, poems, and articles edited during the early 20th century. It provides a platform for a variety of voices exploring contemporary literature, fine arts, music, and drama, reflecting on the cultural landscape of post-World War I Britain. The publication aims to bridge traditional literary criticism and original artistic expression, making it significant for readers interested in the evolution of literary discourse during this transformative period. The opening of the volume presents the editorial vision behind "The London Mercury," articulating its commitment to fostering literary culture amidst the challenges of the day. It discusses the necessity for a periodical that combines critical reviews, original works, and essays on the arts, aiming to uphold and promote the values of creativity and culture. It highlights this undertaking as an essential act of resilience and intellect, striving to clarify the role of literature and the arts in a society emerging from crisis. The editor emphasizes the need to maintain a robust literary tradition while embracing innovation, pointing towards a broader ambition to capture the rich conversation about art and literature of the time.
Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite
Molière
Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite
"Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite" by Molière is a theatrical comedy first performed in 1664. When Orgon falls under the spell of Tartuffe, a cunning fraud posing as a holy man, his family watches in horror as their household unravels. Tartuffe manipulates his way into Orgon's fortune, arranges to marry his daughter, and seduces his wife—all while maintaining a mask of piety. The play sparked immediate controversy for its portrayal of religious hypocrisy, leading King Louis XIV to suppress it despite its popularity.
The Merchant of Venice
William Shakespeare
The Merchant of Venice
"The Merchant of Venice" by William Shakespeare is a play written between 1596 and 1598. When a Venetian merchant defaults on a loan from Jewish moneylender Shylock, who demands a pound of flesh as payment, fatal consequences loom. Though classified as a comedy, the play is best remembered for its dramatic scenes and Shylock's character. It features famous speeches on humanity and mercy, while sparking ongoing debate about whether the work is antisemitic in its portrayal of discrimination and justice.
Hamlet
William Shakespeare
Hamlet
"Hamlet" by William Shakespeare is a tragedy written between 1599 and 1601. Prince Hamlet of Denmark seeks revenge against his uncle Claudius, who murdered Hamlet's father to seize the throne and marry Hamlet's mother. When a ghost resembling the dead king reveals the truth of his murder, Hamlet vows vengeance but struggles with uncertainty and madness—both feigned and possibly real. As he orchestrates a play to expose Claudius's guilt, the prince navigates a treacherous court where loyalty is questionable and death looms.
Charles Frohman: Manager and Man
Isaac Frederick Marcosson
Charles Frohman: Manager and Man
"Charles Frohman: Manager and Man" by Isaac Frederick Marcosson and Daniel Frohman is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book details the life and career of Charles Frohman, a pivotal figure in American theater management, charting his rise from an enthusiastic child in the theater to a major force in theatrical productions. It explores themes of ambition, family ties, and the evolution of the theater industry during his lifetime. The opening of the book introduces Charles Frohman as a young boy who becomes captivated by the theater after watching "The Black Crook." The passage paints a vivid picture of his early experiences with theater through his family's influences, emphasizing the importance of his artistic upbringing and his father's aspiration to act. The narrative takes readers through Frohman's childhood in New York, exploring his determination to connect with the theater world, showcasing his first business ventures like selling theater programs, and underscoring his early encounters with notable figures in the industry. This excerpt sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Frohman's unique journey, highlighting how his childhood fascination laid the foundation for a lasting legacy in theater.
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 1
E. K. (Edmund Kerchever) Chambers
The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 1
"The Elizabethan Stage, Vol. 1" by E. K. Chambers is an historical account written in the early 20th century. This in-depth study explores the development of the Elizabethan stage as an institution, examining its origins and the socio-economic conditions that contributed to its evolution. The work focuses particularly on the Elizabethan Court and the theatrical practices that emerged during this vibrant period. At the start of the text, the author sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and historical context of theatre in the Elizabethan era. Chambers reflects on his previous research and outlines the contents of this volume, which will cover topics such as pageantry, court plays, and the relationship between theatrical performances and the Court. He provides insight into the significant social forces at play during this time and emphasizes the layering of new research and perspectives that have informed his work over two decades. The tone is academic, establishing a strong foundation for the detailed analysis that will follow in subsequent chapters.
Ghosts
Henrik Ibsen
Ghosts
"Ghosts" by Henrik Ibsen is a play written in 1881. This controversial drama follows widow Helen Alving as she prepares to dedicate an orphanage in memory of her unfaithful late husband. When her son Oswald returns home, long-buried family secrets begin to surface, threatening to destroy the carefully maintained façade of respectability. The play explores the devastating consequences of following society's moral code, confronting taboo subjects that scandalized 19th-century audiences and challenged conventional notions of duty, truth, and maternal sacrifice.