History of the Theatre [Hardcover]

Oscar G. Brockett (Author), Franklin J. Hildy (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0205511864 | ISBN-13: 978-0205511860 | Publication Date: October 11, 2007 | Edition: 10th

Known as the "bible" of theatre history, Brockett and Hildy’s History of the Theatre is the most comprehensive and widely used survey of theatre history in the market.

 

This 40^th Anniversary Edition retains all of the traditional features that have made History of the Theatre the most successful text of its kind, including worldwide coverage, more than 530 photos and illustrations, useful maps, and the expertise of Oscar G. Brockett and Franklin J. Hildy, two of the most widely respected theatre historians in the field. As with every edition, the text reflects the current state of knowledge and brings the history of theatre up to the present. This tenth edition continues to provide the most thorough and accurate assessment of theatre history available.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

History of the Theatre, 10/e

Oscar G. Brockett and Franklin J. Hildy

 

Congratulations on beginning your learning experience with the 40th Anniversary Edition of this bestselling theatre history textbook written by two of the most highly respected theatre historians in the field: Oscar G. Brockett and Franklin J. Hildy.  You’ll begin your historical journey chronologically with the ritual origins of theatre. Then you’ll travel around the world as you explore the roots of theatre in countries such as Spain, England, and France, in Latin America and more. You’ll end your survey with the theatres of Africa and Asia. The cover alone captures the drama and diversion that an evening at the theatre provides.              

 

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS EDITION

• The most comprehensive coverage of European, American, Asian, African, and Latin American theatre history exposes you to many types of theatre you may have never before considered.
• A revised chapter on contemporary theatre covers avant-garde theatre from around the world and brings theatre history up to the present day.
• Updates throughout every chapter provide you with the most current and accurate information available, so you’ll be well-informed for discussions in class as well as with family and friends. 

REVIEWER QUOTES

 

“Most people involved with teaching theatre history know that this text is unequaled in the field. No other survey text gives this kind of detail, is revised as often to keep pace with research and historical developments, is as qualified or clear in what the state of knowledge and debate are on particular topics, covers as many areas of world theatre, has as thorough an index, is as rich in images, or has as useful a bibliography.” 

–Dennis C. Beck, James Madison University

 

“Since I was a college undergraduate, the Brockett history book has been a ‘must do’ on my bookshelf and the bookshelves of all of my theatre peers and professors alike. The Brockett book is affectionately referred to as ’The Bible’ among my colleagues. There is no question it is a remarkable compilation of information and an invaluable addition to my resources.”

–Kimberly Wagner, Edinboro University

Product Details

• Hardcover: 688 pages
• Publisher: Allyn & Bacon; 10th edition (October 11, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0205511864
• ISBN-13: 978-0205511860
• Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.8 x 3.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #35,759 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Yes, Oscar Brockett is God, February 18, 2000

By 

Jason Groce - See all my reviews

This review is from: History of the Theatre (8th Edition) (Hardcover)

I had the pleasure of being Brock's student for three years at the University of Texas. The book is phenomenal, easy to read and amazingly complete. The History of the Theatre experience should also be augmented by the opportunity to hear Brockett speak. He is erudite, funny, a lively teacher and an incredible intellect. There is no other book to serve as a reference and introduction to theatre history. No other book and no other teacher so expertly and informatively makes you realize the interweaving of theatre and society throughout its long history. IMHO, Brockett should write the history not just of theatre but of everything. His non-didactic, straight-forward and lively prose would make any work of history or criticism on any subject a delight.

9 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Excellent and Thorough Text Under Great Editorship, January 25, 2000

By 

Book Addict "Eleanor T" (Pittsburgh, PA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: History of the Theatre (8th Edition) (Hardcover)

As a former student of Franklin J. Hildy's, and a reader of the Brockett text for several theater courses, I must highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a detailed, yet expansive, overview of the history of the theatrical arts throughout the world. Dr. Hildy's passion for and knowledge of the subject matter is rivaled by none and the complete scope of this project would have daunted many editors less competent to undertake such a task. A great reference text as well as course material. I often find mine useful in day-to-day queries as well as research on period and scenic styles.

5.0 out of 5 stars Best of the lot, April 4, 2011

By 

Grover Smittle (St. Louis, MO USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: History of the Theatre (Hardcover)

Quite simply the best comprehensive theatre history text available. In every new edition, Brock reviewed every word on every page, incorporating new research, new theories, and new opinions. He never just "tacked on" a new chapter every couple of years. The good doctor is careful to separate fact from speculation, and often includes alternate interpretations of the historical record.

As other reviewers have noted, this text is best accompanied by Dr. Brockett's lively lectures. Unfortunately, since his death last year this is impossible. I found during my time at UT that Brock was a careful scholar, interesting lecturer, and outstanding mentor.

Buy this book! It puts the others in my theatre history collection (Molinari, et al.) to shame.