1st Edition

English Medieval Theatre 1400–1500

By William Tydeman Copyright 1986
238 Pages
by Routledge

238 Pages
by Routledge

238 Pages
by Routledge

Originally published in 1986, this volume illuminates the predominant theatrical styles of a particular period in dramatic history. It does this by reconstructing – as far as conjecture permits – the manner in which five major plays of the late Middle Ages might have been staged in fifteenth-century Britain. The author draws on his experience in producing medieval plays to discuss the business of... Read more

Part 1: The Repertoire Part 2: Plays in Performance 1. The Booth Stage: Mankynde 2. Scenic Structures: The Croxton Play of the Sacrament 3. Theatre in the Round: The Castel of Perseverance 4. Processional Staging: The York Passion Sequence 5. Great Hall Theatre: Fulgens and Lucres.  

Biography

After studying at University College, Oxford William (Bill) Tydeman, (1935–2018) began  his teaching career in the English Department at the University College of North Wales in Bangor. Ultimately rising to the position of Professor Emeritus, he remained at UCNW for just over 40 years and during this time, not only had the pleasure of publishing a great many books based on his scholarly interests which were wide ranging - from Medieval poetry, through Tudor plays to Wordsworth, Oscar Wilde and various Welsh authors - but also the privilege of being involved in various practical ways with a great many dramatic productions. As a result, most of the books that he wrote - especially those relating to theatre in the Middle Ages - were not just the result of conscientious academic study, but also of enthusiastic ‘hands on’ dramatic experiences.

Original Review of English Medieval Theatre 1400–1500:

‘Tydeman’s book will prove useful both to the literary historian and to the student of the history of dramatic production.’ Ronald J. Heckelman, Quidditas, Vol 8, Article 19 (1987).

‘The strength of the book is its lively sense of Medieval theatre and its potential.’ Martin Stevens, Albion: A Quarterly Journal Concerned with British Studies, Vol 19, No. 1 (1987).