A collection of fourteen critical essays on the works of the English dramatist and poet arranged in chronological order of publication.

George Bernard Shaw took to task the dramatic conventions of the late 19th century and dealt with issues that had previously been ignored, such as religion, economics, domestic conflict, and the role of women in society. Shaw's career as a playwright spanned more than 50 years, and his plays Major Barbara, Pygmalion, and Heartbreak House endure as popular classics. This new edition of critical essays delves into Shaw's literary legacy and features...

Discusses the plots, characters, and themes of five Shakespearean comedies.

Discusses the plots, characters, and themes of "Pericles," "Cymbeline," "The Winter's Tale," and "The Tempest."

Biography of Aeschylus -- Plot summary of, list of characters in, and critical views on: the Agamemnon -- the Choephori -- the Eumenides.

Discussion and criticism of Ma Rainey's black bottom, Fences, Joe Turner's come and gone and Two trains running.

Discusses the plots, characters, and themes of the dramatist's most important works.

Provides biographical information about American author Thornton Wilder, features a selection of critical views on his body of work, and includes profiles of two Wilder plays, including "Our Town," and "The Skin of Our Teeth," each with a plot summary, list of characters, and critical essays.