The Growth of English Drama

The volume traces the evolution of English drama from its liturgical origins and continental church rites through medieval miracle plays and moralities to the emergence of secular comedy and tragedy, presenting plot summaries, verse specimens, and critical commentary. It examines interludes, the contribution of university-born playwrights, and the careers and influences of Lyly, Greene, Peele, Nash, Lodge, Kyd, and Marlowe, with a case study of Arden of Feversham, and concludes with practical notes on Elizabethan staging. Emphasis is on juxtaposing critical appraisal with primary details so readers can form independent judgments.