Subject
English drama -- Early modern and Elizabethan, 1500-1600 Books
Best books
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.
Robert Greene
Robert Greene: [Six Plays]
"The Complete Plays of Robert Greene" edited by Thomas H. Dickinson is a collection of plays written during the late 16th century. This volume showcases the works of Robert Greene, a prominent figure in Elizabethan drama, whose life and writings reflect the complexity of his time and the evolution of English theater. The plays included are characterized by a blend of romanticism, morality, and satire, reflecting Greene's unique perspective on life, society, and the emerging form of English drama. The opening of the collection provides a detailed introduction to Greene’s life and his significance in the context of the Elizabethan era. It addresses the misunderstandings surrounding his reputation, emphasizing his contributions to the development of drama as an art form distinct from mere didactic storytelling. The introductory section discusses Greene's interactions with contemporary playwrights like Marlowe and Shakespeare, as well as the moral themes present in his works. Greene’s struggle with personal vices and societal criticism adds a layer of depth to his plays, offering readers not only tales of intrigue and adventure but also insightful reflections on human nature and the moral fabric of society.
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Recently Recovered "Lost" Tudor Plays with some others
"Recently Recovered 'Lost' Tudor Plays with Some Others" by John Stephen Farmer is a collection of historical plays written in the late 19th century. The collection features several plays, including three recently recovered "lost" works from the Tudor period, namely "Wealth and Health," "Impatient Poverty," and "John the Evangelist." This compilation aims to shed light on a lesser-known aspect of early English dramatic literature, making these texts accessible to scholars and enthusiasts alike. At the start of the collection, the editor John S. Farmer discusses the significance of the recent discovery of these lost Tudor plays, unearthed in an Irish country house. He details the excitement surrounding their recovery in 1906 and emphasizes their potential value for scholarship. The opening portion also introduces the stage set of "Mankind," a morality play that will be featured in the volume. The play presents its characters—Mercy and Mankind—engaging in a dialogue about the struggle between good and evil, establishing a moral framework that aligns with the themes explored in the Tudor plays throughout the collection.
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The chief Elizabethan dramatists, excluding Shakespeare : $b selected plays by Lyly, Peele, Greene, Marlowe, Kyd, Chapman, Jonson, Dekker, Marston, Heywood, Beaumont, Fletcher, Webster, Middleton, Massinger, Ford, Shirley
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John Webster
Webster & Tourneur
"Webster & Tourneur" by John Webster and Cyril Tourneur is a collection of dramatic works written during the early 17th century. This edition includes notable plays such as "The White Devil," "The Duchess of Malfi," "The Atheist's Tragedy," and "The Revenger's Tragedy," showcasing the tragedies and themes characteristic of the period. The plays largely explore themes of ambition, revenge, and moral corruption, often set against the backdrop of dark societal elements. At the start of this collection, the text gives an overview of the Globe Theatre and the works of Webster and Tourneur, setting the stage for their intense explorations of the human experience. It presents a rich historical context and delves into a detailed examination of the playwrights' techniques, drawing comparisons between their styles and contributions to the "Tragedy of Blood." It highlights the principal themes of their works, such as jealousy, betrayal, and tragic downfall, as indicated through characters like Vittoria Corombona and Duke Brachiano in "The White Devil," where vengeance and moral complexity drive the narrative from the very first scenes. This introduction provides readers with a foundation for understanding the intricate plots and the psychologically charged landscapes of the plays to follow.
Thomas Heywood
Thomas Heywood
"The Mermaid Series: Thomas Heywood" edited by A. Wilson Verity is a collection of plays written in the late 19th century. The anthology celebrates the works of Thomas Heywood, a prolific playwright of the early 17th century, showcasing several of his notable plays, including "A Woman Killed with Kindness" and "The Fair Maid of the West." The collection reflects on themes of love, betrayal, and morality, commonly found in Heywood’s narratives, providing insight into the human condition through a domestic lens. At the start of the collection, an introduction sets the context for Heywood's works, emphasizing his distinct traits that make him notable among his contemporaries. The opening scene introduces key characters in "A Woman Killed with Kindness," including Master Frankford and Mistress Frankford, who are newlyweds relishing in their happiness. Their interactions are warm and witty, revealing underlying tensions of social expectations and domestic bliss. The stage is set for conflict as hints of betrayal begin to surface, particularly involving Wendoll, a friend who arrives in the household bearing news that may upend their serene beginnings. The early moments suggest a blend of humor and impending drama, indicating Heywood's talent for interweaving heartfelt emotional depth with critical social commentary.
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Gammer Gurton's Needle
"Gammer Gurton's Needle" by John S. Farmer is a comedic play written in the mid-16th century. The story centers around Gammer Gurton, an old woman who misplaces her treasured needle, sparking chaos in her village as the news spreads. The humor is rooted in farcical misunderstandings and the antics of a cast of engaging characters, including Hodge, her servant, and Diccon, the mischievous local troublemaker. The opening of the play introduces Gammer Gurton grappling with the loss of her needle, which she values greatly. As she frets about this loss, her servant Hodge and various other characters speculate about the situation, leading to a series of humorous exchanges. Diccon, a local fool, adds to the mix by stirring trouble and gossip among the townsfolk, while the chaotic interactions set the stage for the unfolding comedic drama. The colorful dialogue reflects the rustic life of the characters, highlighting their distinct speech and vibrant personalities.
Christopher Marlowe
The Works of Christopher Marlowe, Vol. 2 (of 3)
"The Works of Christopher Marlowe, Vol. 2 (of 3)" by Christopher Marlowe is a collection of plays written during the late 16th century. This volume includes significant works such as "The Jew of Malta" and "Edward the Second," showcasing Marlowe's talents in dramatic storytelling and character development. The primary themes revolve around ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of human motivations, encapsulated through memorable characters like the cunning Barabas in "The Jew of Malta." At the start of "The Jew of Malta," we are introduced to Barabas, a wealthy Jewish merchant in Malta, who is initially counting his considerable wealth. The narrative quickly unfolds to reveal his abject anger and despair as the governor of Malta seizes half of his riches to pay a debt to the Turks. Barabas's character is marked by his manipulative tendencies and resentment towards the Christians who oppress him. The opening sets the stage for Barabas's schemes for revenge against those who have wronged him, foreshadowing the dark and dramatic turns that will follow in the story. Through Barabas and other characters, the themes of greed and vengeance are established, promising a tale rife with intrigue and conflict.
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A Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 4
"A Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 4" by A. H. Bullen is a compilation of theatrical works likely compiled in the late 19th century, drawing upon the rich heritage of English drama from earlier centuries. This volume includes several plays, notably "Two Tragedies in One" by Robert Yarington, which features intertwined stories of murder and betrayal, focusing on themes of greed and the dark implications of ambition. The opening of this volume begins with a preface detailing the editor's efforts in bringing forth previously unpublished plays, which showcases the meticulous nature of Bullen's work. The introduction to "Two Tragedies in One" outlines the dual plot structure: one revolves around the murder of a chandler named Robert Beech and his servant, while the second echoes the poignant tale reminiscent of "The Babes in the Wood." The introduction delves into historical context, noting the rarity of the play and Yarington’s obscurity. As the narrative progresses, characters like Merry, who is caught in a treacherous plot, unfold complex motives driven by avarice, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. The opening sets a stage filled with tension and foreboding, indicative of the moral inquiries explored within these old English plays.
Francis Beaumont
The Works of Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher in Ten Volumes: Volume 01.
"The Works of Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher in Ten Volumes: Volume 01" is a definitive collection of plays and texts from two of the most significant playwrights of the early 17th century. Written during the late Elizabethan to early Stuart period, this volume brings together their influential works, including notable titles such as "The Maid's Tragedy," "Philaster," and "The Scornful Lady." The collection explores themes of love, betrayal, and human emotion, showcasing the complex characters and intricate plots that define the artistry of Beaumont and Fletcher. The opening of the volume provides historical context about the authors, detailing their biographies and the significance of their contributions to English drama. The text introduces the first collected edition released in 1647 and highlights the importance of this publication in preserving their works, reaffirming their impact on the English stage. The introduction sets the stage for the texts to follow, emphasizing the lasting influence of Beaumont and Fletcher in shaping the theatrical landscape of their time and beyond. Readers are invited to explore a treasury of dramatic literature, enriched by commendatory verses from contemporary writers that celebrate the talents of both playwrights.
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The Puritan Widow
"The Puritan Widow" is a Jacobean stage comedy first published in 1607. Attributed to "W.S." on its title page, this anonymous play has been linked to both Shakespeare and Thomas Middleton, though modern scholars favor Middleton's authorship. The story follows Lady Plus, a demonstrative Puritan widow, and her calculating family as they navigate grief, marriage prospects, and social ambition. Meanwhile, a group of clever rogues—including a poor scholar and discharged soldiers—plot to deceive the wealthy widow through cons involving fortune-telling and wizardry, setting the stage for satirical comedy.
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A Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 2
"A Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 2" by A. H. Bullen is a scholarly compilation of dramatic works from the Old English period, first published in the late 19th century. This volume includes several previously unpublished plays, with contributions from notable playwrights such as John Fletcher and Philip Massinger, although the majority are anonymous. The collection aims to expose readers to historical theatrical works that reflect themes of valor, love, and societal values, showcased through various characters and narratives, with a particular focus on the play “Dick of Devonshire.” The opening of the volume sets the stage with a preface by the editor, A. H. Bullen, highlighting the significance of the plays within and their ties to historical events and life during their respective periods. The introduction to "Dick of Devonshire," the first play in the collection, discusses its authorial attributions and thematic underpinnings, featuring the main character Richard Pike, a Devonshire soldier. As the narrative unfolds in the initial scenes, it introduces a cast of characters involved in political intrigue, familial loyalty, and impending conflict, as Pike prepares for a military expedition, highlighting his character's bravery and the burdens of war. The interweaving plot threads and rich dialogue promise a deeper exploration of human emotion and societal constructs within the fabric of early English drama.
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