John Fletcher's Rome: Questioning the Classics

John Fletchers Rome is the first book to explore John Fletchers engagement with classical antiquity. Domenico Lovascios study examines these plays as a group, identifying disorientation as the unifying principle of Fletchers portrayal of imperial Rome. It sheds new light on Fletchers intellectual life, his vision of history, and the interconnections between these plays and the rest of his canon.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

John Fletchers Rome is a groundbreaking work that delves into the profound connection between John Fletcher and classical antiquity. Like his fellow literary giants Shakespeare and Jonson, Fletcher crafted a series of Roman plays that showcased his mastery of the genre. These plays include Bonduca, Valentinian, The False One, and The Prophetess. However, unlike Shakespeare and Jonson, Fletcher's Roman plays have received relatively limited critical attention.

In order to rectify this oversight, Domenico Lovascios groundbreaking study takes a comprehensive look at these plays as a collective, identifying disorientation as the overarching theme that unites Fletcher's portrayal of imperial Rome. Lovascios analysis offers a fresh perspective on Fletcher's intellectual journey, his historical vision, and the intricate connections between these plays and the rest of his literary oeuvre.

Through his irreverent approach to the classics, Fletcher's Rome exudes a sense of detachment and scepticism towards the authority of Roman models. This unconventional approach adds depth and complexity to his dramatization, allowing him to explore the complexities of ancient society and the challenges faced by its inhabitants.

Fletchers Rome sheds new light on the intellectual life of this renowned playwright, revealing his profound engagement with classical philosophy, literature, and history. It provides a deeper understanding of his vision of history, which was shaped by his admiration for the Roman Empire but also tempered by his critical perspective.

The book also highlights the interconnections between Fletcher's Roman plays and the rest of his canon. By examining the themes, characters, and motifs that recur across these plays, Lovascios demonstrates how Fletcher used them as a means to explore broader themes of power, politics, and morality.

In conclusion, John Fletchers Rome is a seminal work that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the relationship between classical antiquity and English literature. Through its comprehensive analysis of Fletcher's Roman plays, Lovascios provides a deeper understanding of this playwright's intellectual life, historical vision, and the enduring legacy of his literary contributions. This book is a must-read for scholars and enthusiasts alike who seek to explore the rich tapestry of English Renaissance drama.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526157386