Greek Theatre Production by Webster, T. B. L.;

Short description:

This book first published in 1956 and updated in 1970, is based on an expert knowledge of Greek plays and monuments. Scenery, staging and costumes are the three main topics. These are treated chronologically within geographical areas, and evidence is given for local productions of drama throughout the Greek-speaking world.

Long description:

Greek Theatre Production, first published in 1956, is based on an expert knowledge of Greek plays and monuments. In this second edition from 1970, Professor Webster made additions and corrections to bring it up to date.

Scenery, staging and costumes are the three main topics. These are treated chronologically within geographical areas, and evidence is given for local productions of drama throughout the Greek-speaking world from the sixth century B.C. to the Roman period. The survival of local pre-dramatic performances, which may have affected local dramatic costume, is examined here.

A final chapter collects the local evidence into a continuous story, tracing the history of staging, scenery and costumes from the earliest times, and gives full weight to the dominating influence of Athens during the fifth and fourth centuries B.C., and the international character of Hellenistic production. A catalogue lists over 250 of the most important monuments, of which about 40 are illustrated and includes many which would not have been found in the usual textbooks at the time.

Reviews for the original edition:

‘His study, though primarily a book for the specialist and certainly a book which every specialist will want to have, is also full of interest for the general reader.’ – The Listener

‘He shows an admirably sharp eye for detail and is always ready to pronounce decisively upon conflicting claims. His principal fresh contribution is a very thorough examination of the masks used for tragedy and comedy – and an impressive catalogue of monuments, which is indispensable to any methodical study of the subject.’ – The Times Literary Supplement 

Table of Contents:

Preface to Second Edition.  Acknowledgements.  Introduction.  1. Athens  2. Sicily and Italy  3. Mainland Greece  4. The Islands  5. Asia and Africa  6. Conclusion.  Addenda and Corrigenda.  Concordance.  List of Monuments.  Index.