Victorian Epic Burlesques: A Critical Anthology of Nineteenth-Century Theatrical Entertainments after Homer

This anthology presents annotated scripts of four major burlesques by key playwrights, highlighting the comedic reimagining of Homer's epic tales in nineteenth-century Britain. Burlesques combined song, dance, and slapstick comedy with topical allusions, satirical commentary, and classical sources. The introduction explores how these plays contested the accessibility of classical antiquity and dramatic performance, and the annotations provide insights into the social, cultural, and political history of the nineteenth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

An Anthology of Burlesque Scripts:


In the vibrant theatrical landscape of nineteenth-century Britain, the legendary tales of Homer's Trojan War and its aftermath took on a new life through the medium of burlesque. Classical burlesques, renowned for their immense popularity, skillfully mined the rich tapestry of the Iliad and Odyssey, extracting humor and comic effect in remarkable ways. These theatrical entertainments seamlessly fused song, dance, and slapstick comedy with a diverse array of topical allusions, ranging from playful references to boxing legends to reimagining Shakespearean conflicts. Burlesques, with their satirical commentary on politics, cultural highlights, and everyday current affairs, offered a refreshing perspective on the world.


By delving into Homer's irreverently playful afterlife, this anthology showcases the evolution and broad appeal of burlesque. The critical introduction provides valuable insights into how these plays challenged the accessibility of classical antiquity and theatrical performance. Extensive textual and literary annotations, accompanied by contemporary illustrations, shed light on the juxtaposed sources that shaped these reimagined epics. These annotated scripts serve as indispensable tools for unlocking the social, cultural, and political history of nineteenth-century Britain.


For those seeking further exploration, online resources are readily available to delve deeper into the world of burlesque and its historical significance. Whether you are an academic, theater enthusiast, or simply curious, this anthology offers a captivating glimpse into the playful and subversive world of nineteenth-century theatrical entertainment.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 155 x 236 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350160057