Bethlehem: A Nativity Play

Name: Bethlehem: A Nativity Play
Author: Laurence Housman

By Laurence Housman

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About This Book

A short nativity play in verse stages a stylized retelling of the birth of Christ. A framing chorus invites reverent attention before pastoral shepherds witness a luminous star and an angelic proclamation; the shepherds visit a humble manger where Mary and the newborn lie. A procession of eastern kings follows a guiding star, and Joseph receives warning in a dream of murderous intent, prompting flight and the family's disappearance from the stage. Scenes stress wonder, divine goodwill, and the persistence of faith after the physical absence of the infant.

About the Author

Laurence Housman

Laurence Housman was an English playwright, poet, and illustrator, known for his contributions to Victorian literature. He was the brother of the more famous A.E. Housman and carved out his own niche with works that often explored themes of love, morality, and social issues. His notable plays include "Angels and Ministers, and Other Victorian Plays" and "Bethlehem: A Nativity Play," which reflect his interest in both the theatrical and the spiritual. Housman's writing is characterized by its lyrical quality and a deep engagement with the human experience, making him a significant figure in the literary heritage of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.