The Broadview Anthology of Drama, Volume 1: From Antiquity Through the Eighteenth Century

The Broadview Anthology of Drama: Plays from the Western Theatre is a chronological presentation of 43 plays in two volumes, ranging from the ancient theatre world to the present day. Each chapter focuses on a specific period and begins with an insightful introduction sketching the historical and theatrical landscape of that period. Contextualization for each play is provided through a thorough account of the literary and dramatic background of the play along with clear and comprehensive annotation. In addition, the editors have provided a glossary of terms used in the anthology to better equip students with a vocabulary for discussing the world of the stage. Comments “Wise and Walker deserve kudos for editing this outstanding new anthology of Western drama. In two volumes, the anthology offers something for everyone: plenty of ‘classic’ texts, a wide selection of plays by new or under-represented dramatists, more comedies than most anthologies, meticulous and well-researched annotations, and many specially commissioned translations that are lively and accessible. The expertly written introductions provide excellent orientations to each historical era and individual play. A useful and thoroughly engaging anthology!” — Jerry Dickey, University of Arizona “The Broadview Anthology of Drama succeeds in its ambitious attempt ‘to tell the ongoing story of Western theatre and drama’ in two volumes. Socially significant dramas share space with acknowledged classics. Comedies are generously represented, as are plays by female playwrights. Introductions are clear, footnotes are useful, and many translations are freshly commissioned, making this an appealing text for both undergraduate and graduate survey courses. An impressive achievement.” — Andrew Sofer, Boston College