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Popular Romance in Early Modern Amateur and Regional Drama

The Age of Mucedorus

Popular Romance in Early Modern Amateur and Regional Drama cover

Popular Romance in Early Modern Amateur and Regional Drama

The Age of Mucedorus

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Pre-order. Available 06 Aug 2026
$129.60 RRP $162.00 Website price saving $32.40 (20%)

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Description

As one of the most popular early modern plays, Mucedorus provides new insights into romance narratives and the understudied history of amateur and regional performance. A story of a disguised prince and a rebellious princess surviving various perils in a pastoral forest, Kim Gilchrist highlights how this anonymous play encompasses the common themes through which early modern performance was most widely experienced.

He explores the rich landscape of regional performance that existed after the play's original performance in London playhouses and its later revival by Shakespeare's King's Men before the Stuart court. As the play was widely performed outside of London by non-professionals, the book draws attention to theatrical culture independent of the capital with distinct dramaturgical characteristics. This expands our understanding of the relationships between commercial, literary and elite drama, and wider national traditions of playing. Gilchrist corrects the play's critical neglect by situating its value to early modern performers and audiences. The reasons for this neglect focus on the class and gendered aspects of the romance genre, which we learn was vital for so many, even as it endured literary derision.

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Table of Contents

Acknowledgements
Note on Texts

Introduction

1. 'In Times of Yore': The Romance Play Before Mucedorus

2. 'To Gaine the Love of All Estates': Envie and Popular Play

3. 'Who Comes Here With Whom I Dare Not Fight?': Mucedorus and the City

4. 'What Should Shepherds Do in the Court?': Stuart Arcadiamania

5. 'Passing Further Than Our Wonted Walks': Amadine in the Country

Conclusions

Works Cited
Databases
Primary Sources
Secondary Sources

Product details

The Arden Shakespeare
Published 06 Aug 2026
Format Ebook (Epub & Mobi)
Edition 1st
Pages 256
ISBN 9781350400665
Imprint The Arden Shakespeare
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

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