Representative Plays by American Dramatists 1765-1819   By: Montrose Jonas Moses (1878-1934)

Representative Plays by American Dramatists 1765-1819, compiled and edited by Montrose Jonas Moses, offers an insightful glimpse into the rich and captivating world of early American theater. This unique collection brings together an array of significant plays from a pivotal period in American history, shedding light on the cultural and social milieu of the time.

One of the most commendable aspects of this anthology is the meticulousness with which Moses has approached the task of selecting plays that represent the era's dramatic essence. With a discerning eye, he has chosen an eclectic mix of tragedies, comedies, and histories, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the theatrical landscape. From the familiar and often-studied works of William Dunlap and Royall Tyler to the lesser-known but equally captivating plays by Susanna Haswell Rowson and Mercy Otis Warren, Moses does an excellent job of showcasing the diversity within early American drama.

Another commendable aspect is the book's comprehensive introductory section. Moses provides a concise and informative overview of the historical and cultural context in which these plays were produced, offering valuable insights that greatly enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of the works. This contextualization proves invaluable in navigating the nuances of the plays and recognizing their significance within the broader narrative of American theater. Furthermore, the editor's well-researched biographical sketches of each playwright offer a deeper understanding of their motivations and contributions.

Moreover, Moses's astute editing choices ensure that the selected plays remain accessible to contemporary readers. While maintaining the integrity of the original texts, some minor updates have been made to the language and formatting to facilitate a smoother reading experience. This thoughtful approach strikes a balance between preserving the authenticity of the plays and making them more approachable for modern audiences, thus ensuring the continued relevance and enjoyment of these works.

Despite the collection's many merits, one potential drawback lies in the limited annotations provided. While the introductory section covers the broader historical context, a more extensive annotation system for individual plays may have offered further elucidation of the language, cultural references, and theatrical conventions utilized at the time. Such annotations would have greatly aided readers less familiar with this period, allowing them to fully appreciate the nuances of these plays and fully immerse themselves in the world presented.

In conclusion, Representative Plays by American Dramatists 1765-1819 is a captivating anthology that expertly introduces readers to the vibrant world of early American theater. Montrose Jonas Moses has done a commendable job in curating a diverse range of plays that not only offer a compelling reading experience but also shed light on crucial aspects of American cultural history. While the book's introductory sections and careful editing choices greatly aid readers' understanding, a more extensive annotation system could have further enriched the overall experience. Nevertheless, this collection is an invaluable resource for scholars, theater enthusiasts, and anyone interested in delving into the fascinating realm of American theater's early years.

First Page:

First published by E... Continue reading book >>