TL;DR
Presenting 39 renowned plays written in English, this book outlines each play’s essential elements – characters, plot, climax, falling action, resolution, conflict, theme, and significance. It serves as a reference guide for those studying or enjoying plays.
Table of contents
Open Table of contents
Writing Background
The book was written as a comprehensive guide to English drama, providing readers with a detailed overview of significant plays in English literature. It aims to assist students, teachers, and general readers in comprehending and appreciating the richness of English drama.
Author’s Introduction
Larry Woiwode, the author of this book, is an accomplished author and professor of creative writing. He holds a deep understanding of drama and its impact on readers.
Key Insights
The book presents a comprehensive overview of 39 plays from various eras of English literature. It provides concise summaries of each play, covering key elements such as characters, plot, conflict, theme, and significance. Additionally, the book includes helpful study questions, discussion topics, and suggestions for further reading.
Chapter Summary
- Part 1: Medieval Plays
- The Second Shepherd’s Play: This medieval play humorously depicts the outwitting of the devil by a clever shepherd.
- Everyman: An allegorical morality play exploring the journey of Everyman towards death and the search for salvation, ultimately highlighting the importance of seeking God’s forgiveness.
- Doctor Faustus: The tragic tale of a scholar who sells his soul to the devil for knowledge and power.
- Part 2: Renaissance Plays
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream: A magical comedy involving interwoven plots of love, fairies, and mistaken identities.
- Hamlet: A tragedy exploring themes of madness, betrayal, and revenge through the character of Hamlet, a prince seeking justice for his father’s murder.
- Othello: A tragedy showcasing the destructive power of jealousy and prejudice, centered around the titular character, a Moorish general.
- Part 3: Restoration and 18th-Century Plays
- The Way of the World: A witty comedy of manners satirizing the superficiality and artificiality of Restoration society.
- The Beggar’s Opera: A satirical ballad opera exposing the corruption and hypocrisy of the upper class.
- She Stoops to Conquer: A comedy highlighting the clash between social classes and the importance of authenticity.
- Part 4: 19th-Century Plays
- Frankenstein: A Gothic horror novel exploring the consequences of scientific hubris and the creation of a monstrous creature.
- Pygmalion: A comedy-drama examining the themes of class, identity, and the transformative power of education.
- The Importance of Being Earnest: A witty comedy satirizing Victorian social conventions and the pursuit of trivial matters.
- Part 5: 20th-Century Plays
- Waiting for Godot: An absurdist play exploring themes of existentialism, meaninglessness, and the human condition.
- The Glass Menagerie: A memory play that delves into the fragility of dreams and the complexities of family relationships.
- Death of a Salesman: A tragedy depicting the downfall of a salesman struggling to find his place in a rapidly changing world.
Conclusion
This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of English drama. It provides succinct and informative summaries of plays from different eras, equipping readers with a solid foundation for further study or enjoyment.
Others
Online discussions have highlighted the book’s usefulness for students, teachers, and general readers alike. It has been praised for its clear and concise language, insightful analysis, and comprehensive coverage of significant English plays.