Maria Martinez Sierra: A Great Playwright Hidden in Plain Sight: Three Plays from Spanish Theatre's Silver Age

María Martínez Sierra was a renowned playwright in Spain, South America, and translation on Broadway and London's West End in the first half of the 20th century. Her works were initially attributed to her husband, Gregorio Martínez Sierra, but after his death, it was revealed that she was the true author. This edited collection features three of her plays, translated by Helen and Harley Granville-Barker, and an introduction by Patricia OConnor that examines her life and work. The plays explore strong women and are edited by Richard Nelson and Professor Colin Chambers, who also contribute an essay on the translation work of the Granville-Barkers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Her plays were widely popular in Spain, South America, and in translation on Broadway and London's West End during that time. However, it was widely believed that her husband, the renowned director and playwright Gregorio Martínez Sierra, was the sole author of her work.

After his passing, it was revealed that María was the true author of her husband's work, solidifying her place as one of the most significant playwrights of her era. This edited collection presents three plays by María Martínez Sierra, translated by Helen and Harley Granville-Barker, along with an introduction by Patricia OConnor, University of Cincinnati, US, that explores María's extraordinary life and work, as well as the struggle to recognize her authorship in both the Spanish-speaking and anglophone worlds.

This volume specifically focuses on plays that revolve around strong female characters, and each play is translated by the esteemed man of theatre Harley Granville-Barker and his wife, Helen. Interestingly, Helen's own story shares striking parallels with Maria's in terms of authorship. The collection is edited by playwright Richard Nelson and Professor Colin Chambers, who contribute an essay on the translation work of the Granville-Barkers.

The plays included in this collection are:
1. The Kingdom of God (1928)
2. The Romantic Young Lady (1920)
3. Take Two From One (1931)

María Martínez Sierra's plays were known for their powerful portrayals of women and their societal commentary. Her work challenged traditional gender roles and explored the complexities of human relationships. Despite facing challenges and barriers to recognition, María's talent and dedication to her craft ultimately earned her the respect and admiration she deserved.

Through this collection, readers are able to appreciate the remarkable contributions of María Martínez Sierra to the world of theatre and gain a deeper understanding of her legacy as a playwright. Her plays continue to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the importance of celebrating the achievements of women in the arts.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350300170