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The First English Actresses: Women and Drama, 1660-1700
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Product Description
Before the Restoration of Charles II there were no professional actresses on the English stage, and female roles had almost always been played by men. This book describes how and why women were permitted to act on the public stage after 1660, and the consequences of their arrival for the drama of the period. Elizabeth Howe opens up a fascinating subject to non-specialists. Beginning with a general account of the workings of Restoration theatre, she goes on to explain the advent of the actresses and how they were treated. Perceived predominantly as sex objects, the actresses’ sexuality was variously exploited in ways that had important consequences for drama. The book addresses questions that are relevant to women’s issues in every period: how far did the advent of real women players alter dramatic portrayals of women? Did this encourage more or less equality between the sexes? Although in one sense merely playthings for a small male elite, the pioneering actresses also represent a distinct female voice in society and a fresh place in discourse.
Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #441552 in Books
- Published on: 1992-06-04
- Original language: English
- Number of items: 1
- Binding: Paperback
- 244 pages
Editorial Reviews
Review
"...packed with new information on women involved in drama of the times, from analysis of theatre objectives and performance technicalities to consideration of how actresses were treated by companies and society during the times." The Midwest Book Review
"...a detailed, meticulous study, which will be of interest to the specialist as well as the general reader....presents an enormous amount of information and will almost certainly provide the impetus for future studies." Elizabeth D. Harvey, Renaissance Quarterly
Customer Reviews
Fascinating and comprehensive introduction to the topic
Howe tells the exciting stories of these early actresses clearly and accessibly. The stories about the lives of the actresses playing the parts - and the way they shaped the roles and character-types - really enhanced my understanding of restoration drama, but you certainly don't have to be a student of restoration drama to enjoy the book!
