A concise collection of John Forster’s dramatic criticism, tracing the history of the stage through the first half of the 19th century. It gathers essays on leading actors, managerial changes, and the evolving taste of audiences, from Leigh Hunt and Hazlitt through Macready, Kean, Forrest, and Lewes. The pages illuminate how critics approached performance, production, and the new French and German influences shaping English theatre.
This edition presents Forster’s vivid, close analysis of acting style, stagecraft, and interpretation. It also situates key performances within a larger drama of theatre history, showing how critical voices shaped public understanding of the art.
- Discover Forster’s views on major actors like Macready and Kean, and how they shaped modern acting.
- See how critics balanced praise and fault in judging performances and productions.
- Explore discussions of stage management, repertoire, and cross‑Channel influences on the English stage.
- Learn about the evolving ideas of what makes acting and theatre “great” in the Victorian era.
Ideal for readers of theatre history, 19th‑century criticism, and those curious about the roots of modern acting.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Excerpt from Dramatic Essays
Titles to which an asterisk is prefixed are supplied by the Editors. Other cases, the headings are Lewes's own.
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This book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.
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Seller: Forgotten Books, London, United Kingdom
Paperback. Condition: New. Print on Demand. This book presents a collection of theatrical essays that illuminate the history of the stage during the first half of the 19th century. Written by renowned critics, journalists, and cultural figures such as Leigh Hunt, George Henry Lewes, and John Forster, these essays capture the vibrant atmosphere of the era, offering insightful critiques of performances, actors, and the ever-evolving theatrical landscape. The essays provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of drama, exploring both canonical works and forgotten plays, while shedding light on the social and cultural context in which they were performed. Through their keen observations and engaging writing, these critics not only document the theatrical achievements of their time but also reveal the enduring power of the stage to reflect and shape society. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book. print-on-demand item. Seller Inventory # 9781330533307_0
Quantity: Over 20 available
Seller: PBShop.store US, Wood Dale, IL, U.S.A.
PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9781330533307
Seller: PBShop.store UK, Fairford, GLOS, United Kingdom
PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9781330533307
Quantity: 15 available