Subject
American drama -- Bibliography Books
Best books
Oscar Wegelin
Early American Plays, 1714-1830 A Compilation of the Titles of Plays and Dramatic Poems Written by Authors Born in or Residing in North America Previous to 1830
"Early American Plays, 1714-1830" by Oscar Wegelin is a historical compilation of titles and brief descriptions of dramatic works written by authors connected to North America before 1830. The work serves as a window into the early American theater scene, showcasing the emergence of drama during a significant period in the nation’s history shortly after its founding. Its focus is primarily on the cataloging of various plays, many of which reflect the political and social currents of the time. The opening of this compilation presents a preface that contextualizes the significance of early American plays, emphasizing that while many may lack literary merit, they are invaluable for understanding the historical landscape of American theater. Wegelin notes the importance of works like Robert Hunter's "Androboros", the first known play written in America, and highlights the connection between dramatic art and major national events, such as the Revolutionary War. The section includes references to notable names and titles, setting the stage for a rich exploration of dramatic literature crafted by a diverse group of writers who were often also active in other fields, thus painting a broad picture of the early cultural landscape in America.
Montrose Jonas Moses
Representative Plays by American Dramatists: 1856-1911: Introduction and Bibliography
"Representative Plays by American Dramatists: 1856-1911" by Montrose Jonas Moses is a comprehensive anthology of American drama published in the early 20th century. This collection provides a valuable selection of plays written during a transformative period for American theatre, showcasing works from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. The likely topic of this book revolves around the evolution and representation of American dramatic literature, offering readers insights into the themes, styles, and social contexts of the plays included. The anthology features a variety of works by notable playwrights, highlighting a diverse range of genres, themes, and social issues prevalent during their times. Notable plays include "Rip Van Winkle," a classic exploration of change and identity, and the emotionally charged "Francesca da Rimini." The collection also presents lesser-known works, such as Steele Mackaye's "Paul Kauvar; or, Anarchy," which reflects on the turbulent political climate of its era. Each play is introduced with scholarly context, emphasizing the significance of the works in American theatre history, illustrating the artistic and cultural currents that influenced their creation, and establishing the importance of these narratives in understanding American identity and society during the given time.
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