Performing Gods in Classical Antiquity and the Age of Shakespeare

The gods have much to tell us about performance, and this book explores how they appear onstage to astound and dramatize the machinations of theatrical performance. It offers a range of case studies featuring canonical and lesser-studied texts, bringing together the perspectives of two experts on classical and Renaissance drama.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 29 December 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The gods hold a wealth of knowledge about performance, and their presence on stage in the form of human actors brings forth profound revelations. These divine epiphanies not only showcase the intricacies of mortals assuming godly roles but also shed light on the essence of theatrical spectacle itself. The challenge of authentically portraying the gods in all their divine glory lies at the crossroads of divine power and the theatrical arts. This captivating book delves into these dynamics across ancient Athens, Rome, Renaissance England, and beyond. The authors unveil how gods manifest on stage, captivating audiences while simultaneously highlighting the intricate mechanisms behind theatrical performance. Through a diverse range of case studies encompassing both canonical and lesser-known texts, the volume explores the works of renowned playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, Aristophanes, and Plautus, as well as the contributions of Beaumont, Heywood, Jonson, Marlowe, and Shakespeare. What sets this book apart is its unique collaboration between two experts in classical and Renaissance drama, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective. This volume will captivate students and enthusiasts of literature, classics, theater, and performance studies alike, providing a deep understanding of the interplay between divinity and theatrical art.

Weight: 324g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350239432