Customer Reviews

Menander and the Making of Comedy (Contributions in Drama and Theatre Studies)

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Menander remains a mystery for most theater-goers. This work, carefully put together by two outstanding exponents of the classical stage, gives a fine concise overview of the Greek theater and the playwright. If you love the stage and stage history you should find this book a worthwhile and even engrossing read. As you will discover, it's really true that there's very little new under the sun! Menander did indeed create modern comedy, and the examples covered bear this estimate out.
The book does not require a knowledge of either Greek or Latin, and the prose is that rara avis among academic tomes - fluent, natural and stylish. Although not an especially long work the chapters present a significant amount of material, well-organized and presented - on finishing you should know more about Menander and his works than all but the specialists!
After this work you will probably wish to read a full play - and two are now available - after 2,000 years of oblivion.
All in all an excellent book and most deserving to join any collection covering the Greek theater.