Overview
The Spanish Tragedy was the first 'revenge tragedy' on the English
Renaissance stage: but for its influence, major dramas including The
Revenger's Tragedy, The Duchess of Malfi and even Hamlet would not exist
as they do. It is thus a key text for the study of Renaissance drama
and normally appears in introductory undergraduate courses on
Renaissance drama and Shakespeare. Despite its initial smash-hit
status, after the closing of the theatres in 1642 the play was only once
performed in Britain before its gradual revival in the 20th century.
Following its first professional performance in 1973, the play has come
to be recognised as a Renaissance classic, receiving frequent
performance. This volume will bring together its most insightful and
influential modern scholars to produce an edition read both by experts
in the field and lovers of Thomas Kyd's drama.