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Mystery Plays
Paperback
Literary CriticismGeneral ChristianityPlays
ISBN13: 9781025855752
Publisher: Tradd Street Press
Published: Feb 14 2026
Pages: 92
Weight: 0.31
Height: 0.19 Width: 6.14 Depth: 9.21
Language: English
Mystery Plays by Godfrey W. Mathews offers a compelling examination of the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of medieval religious drama. The work focuses on the cycle plays that emerged across Europe during the Middle Ages, serving as a primary means of bringing biblical stories and theological concepts to the lay public through theatrical performance.
Mathews explores the unique blend of spirituality and vernacular entertainment that characterized these works, which were often staged by local trade guilds in vibrant town squares. By analyzing the structure and themes of major cycles, the book illustrates how these performances transitioned from simple church-based liturgical tropes into expansive, community-driven productions. This study highlights the artistic and historical importance of the genre, showing how it laid the foundations for modern Western theatre. Mystery Plays is a valuable resource for students of literature, history, and drama, providing deep insight into the intersection of faith, folklore, and the performing arts in the medieval world.
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This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.
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