The Battle of Hexham; or, Days of Old; a play in three acts   By: George Colman (1732-1794)

In "The Battle of Hexham; or, Days of Old" by George Colman, readers are transported to a time when knights and chivalry reigned supreme. Set in the historic Battle of Hexham, the play delves into the clash between the noble houses of York and Lancaster amidst the tumultuous Wars of the Roses.

Colman's vivid portrayal of this pivotal moment in history captivates readers from the first act to the last. Through his skillful use of dialogue and stage direction, he brings the characters and their struggles to life. Every interaction is laden with tension and emotion, as loyalty and betrayal collide on the battlefield.

One of the play's strongest aspects is the way in which Colman develops his characters. From the valiant knights to the cunning schemers, each player in this grand drama possesses their unique motives and ambitions. Their complex relationships and personal conflicts inject a sense of authenticity into the narrative, enabling readers to connect with them on a deeper level.

Furthermore, Colman's meticulous attention to historical detail adds an additional layer of intrigue to the story. Through his eloquent descriptions and vivid imagery, he crafts a vivid picture of the medieval world. The sights, sounds, and even the smells of the era are brought to life, transporting readers back to the days of yore. This meticulous research underscores Colman's commitment to providing an accurate and immersive experience for his audience.

Despite its many strengths, "The Battle of Hexham; or, Days of Old" does have a few minor shortcomings. The play occasionally suffers from pacing issues, with some of the scenes feeling slightly drawn out. Additionally, certain characters feel underdeveloped, sacrificing the potential for deeper exploration of their motivations and inner conflict.

Nevertheless, these minor missteps do little to detract from the play's overall enjoyment. "The Battle of Hexham; or, Days of Old" is an enthralling journey into an era defined by honor, loyalty, and the clash of noble houses. Colman's passion for history shines through in his meticulous attention to detail, well-crafted characters, and engaging plot. This play is a worthy addition to any theater lover's collection and an invitation to immerse oneself in the dramatic tapestry of the Wars of the Roses.

First Page:

Mr. Colman acquaints his readers, in his Preface to this play, dated 1808, that it was written near twenty years ago: then, stating, as an apology to his jocose accusers, this reason for having made Shakespeare the model for his dialogue that plays, which exhibit incidents of former ages, should have the language of the characters conform to their dress he adds "To copy Shakspeare, in the general tournure of his phraseology, is a mechanical task, which may be accomplished with a common share of industry and observation: and this I have attempted (for the reason assigned); endeavouring, at the same time, to avoid a servile quaintness, which would disgust. To aspire to a resemblance of his boundless powers, would have been the labour of a coxcomb; and had I been vain enough to have essayed it, I should have placed myself in a situation similar to that of the strolling actor, who advertised his performance of a part" "In imitation of the inimitable Garrick... Continue reading book >>