Thomas of Woodstock

Paperback / softback

Main Details

Title Thomas of Woodstock
Authors and Contributors      Edited by Peter Corbin
Edited by Douglas Sedge
SeriesThe Revels Plays
Physical Properties
Format:Paperback / softback
Pages:232
Dimensions(mm): Height 216,Width 138
Category/GenrePlays, playscripts
Literary studies - c 1500 to c 1800
Literary studies - plays and playwrights
ISBN/Barcode 9780719080678
ClassificationsDewey:822.3
Audience
General

Publishing Details

Publisher Manchester University Press
Imprint Manchester University Press
Publication Date 1 May 2009
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

This anonymous manuscript play has long been the subject of scholarly dispute regarding its relationship with Shakespeare's Richard II. This edition, which thoroughly re-examines the text, situates the play within its historical and political context, relating it to the genre of chronicle drama to which it belongs. The manuscript is of particular interest in that it appears to have been used in the playhouse over a considerable period of time and contains what seems to be evidence of the theatre practice of the time. The play is also of special interest for its skilful and original handling of source material which may well have influenced Shakespeare's Richard II. The extensive appendices drawn from Holinshed, Grafton and Stow provide the reader with the opportunity to investigate the manner in which the dramatist has shaped the material. The editors argue for the play's stage-worthiness and dramatic complexity, suggesting that its range both of dramatic tone and social inclusiveness indicate the work of a dramatist of considerable skill and subtlety, equal or superior to the Shakespeare of the Henry VI plays. -- .

Author Biography

Peter Corbin was General Editor of the Revels Plays Companion Library and is Honorary Fellow in the School of Drama and Music at the University of Exeter Douglas Sedge is Honorary Fellow in the School of Drama and Music at the University of Exeter