A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 2   By: Robert Dodsley (1703-1764)

A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 2 by Robert Dodsley is a valuable addition to anyone interested in the history of English literature. This volume contains a selection of plays from the 16th and 17th centuries, giving readers a glimpse into the theatrical world of Shakespeare's time and beyond.

Dodsley's collection includes both well-known plays, such as Thomas Kyd's The Spanish Tragedy, and lesser-known gems like James Shirley's The Bird in a Cage. Each play is accompanied by helpful notes and introductions, providing context and background information that enhances the reader's understanding and enjoyment of the text.

The language in these plays may be archaic and challenging for modern readers, but the effort is well worth it for those willing to dive into the rich tapestry of Elizabethan and Jacobean drama. The plays in this collection offer a fascinating look at the social, political, and cultural issues of the time, while also showcasing the talent and creativity of the playwrights who shaped the English theatrical tradition.

Overall, A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 2 is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone with an interest in the history of English literature. Dodsley's careful selection and thoughtful presentation make this volume a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore the rich and complex world of early English drama.

First Page:

The "Interlude of Youth" is probably the most interesting early printed moral play that has descended to our times, and it may therefore be considered somewhat singular that it has hitherto escaped the notice of the publication societies. Its great rarity may, however, account for this circumstance, only two or three copies of any edition being known to exist. Waley's edition appeared probably about the year 1554, and has a woodcut on the title page of two figures, representing Charity and Youth, two of the characters in the interlude. Another edition was printed by Copland, and has also a woodcut on the title page, representing Youth between Charity, and another figure which has no name over its head... Continue reading book >>