Revenger's Tragedy: The State of Play

The Revengers Tragedy (1606) is a dark, satirical revenge tragedy by Thomas Middleton, one of Shakespeares contemporaries. This collection of essays explores its engagement with issues such as religion, genre, race, language, and performance, showcasing recent research.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 296 pages
\n Publication date: 30 May 2019
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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The Revengers Tragedy, widely attributed to Thomas Middleton, is a play that offers a dark and satirical response to other revenge tragedies like Hamlet. With its exaggerated and highly theatrical approach to revenge, The Revenger's Tragedy has become one of the most captivating examples of a drama by one of Shakespeare's contemporaries. This comprehensive collection of ten newly commissioned essays places the play within the context of other Middleton and Shakespeare works, as well as repertory, showcasing recent research on its engagement with issues such as religion, genre, race, language, and performance.

The play's exploration of revenge is particularly noteworthy, as it delves into the complex motivations and consequences of seeking retribution. Middleton's use of humor and irony adds depth to the characters and their actions, creating a nuanced and thought-provoking portrayal of the human condition.

One of the key themes in The Revengers Tragedy is the role of religion in shaping moral and ethical decisions. The play explores the tensions between different religious beliefs and practices, highlighting the potential for conflict and violence when these beliefs are misused or misunderstood.

The Revengers Tragedy also examines the genre of revenge tragedy and its historical context. Middleton's play was influenced by earlier works such as Seneca's Medea and Shakespeare's Hamlet, but it also incorporates elements of other genres, such as comedy and tragedy. This combination of genres creates a unique and complex narrative that challenges traditional expectations of revenge tragedy.

The play's exploration of race and ethnicity is another important aspect of its analysis. Middleton's characters are diverse and complex, representing a range of backgrounds and experiences. This diversity adds depth and richness to the play's themes and allows for a more nuanced understanding of the human experience.

The Revengers Tragedy also examines the role of language and performance in shaping the play's impact. Middleton's use of language is precise and evocative, creating a vivid and immersive experience for the audience. The play's theatricality, with its elaborate costumes, sets, and staging, adds to the emotional impact of the narrative.

In conclusion, The Revengers Tragedy is a play that provides a unique and compelling response to other revenge tragedies. With its dark and satirical approach, its exploration of revenge, religion, genre, race, language, and performance, and its nuanced and thought-provoking portrayal of the human condition, the play has emerged as one of the most significant examples of a drama by one of Shakespeare's contemporaries. This collection of essays showcases recent research on the play, providing a deeper understanding of its themes and impact.

\n Weight: 304g\n
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 14 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781350112506\n \n