History of the Theatre
Pearson New International Edition
📘 About This Book
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 40th 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. This tenth edition provides the most thorough and accurate assessment of theatre history available and includes contemporary milestones in theatre history.
📖 Summary
History of the Theatre, authored by Oscar G. Brockett alongside Franklin J. Hildy, stands as the definitive, comprehensive survey of the performing arts, widely celebrated as the essential bible of theatre history. Spanning an impressive 687 pages in its milestone 40th Anniversary Edition, this tenth edition continues the proud tradition of offering unmatched global coverage of theatrical traditions, evolution, and milestones across diverse cultures and eras. The book meticulously guides readers through the chronological progression of dramatic art, beginning with ancient ritual and classical antiquity, moving through the medieval period and the Renaissance, and advancing into the complex modern and contemporary landscapes. By integrating the rigorous academic expertise of two of the field's most respected historians, the text delivers an exceptionally thorough, accurate, and scholarly assessment of how dramatic performance has reflected and shaped human society throughout the ages. What sets this comprehensive volume apart is its extraordinary visual and contextual richness. The text is lavishly illustrated with over 530 photographs, drawings, and images that bring historical stages, costumes, and architectural designs vividly to life. Furthermore, strategically placed historical and geographical maps help contextualize how theatrical practices evolved within specific cultural and political borders. Rather than focusing exclusively on Western theatrical traditions, Brockett and Hildy offer a genuinely worldwide perspective, ensuring that important Asian, African, and other global contributions to the performing arts receive the detailed attention they deserve. The tenth edition also incorporates contemporary milestones, ensuring that the historical narrative extends into current theatrical movements and modern innovations. Students, scholars, and theatre practitioners alike rely on this text not only for factual accuracy but for its profound understanding of how playwriting, acting styles, staging techniques, and audience expectations have continuously transformed. By synthesizing massive amounts of historical data into a structured, readable, and visually engaging format, History of the Theatre serves as both an authoritative reference tool and an inspiring journey through the shared heritage of world drama.
🎯 Key Lessons
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
Extensive worldwide coverage of theatrical traditions
Over 530 helpful photos, illustrations, and maps
Authored by respected field experts Oscar G. Brockett and Franklin J. Hildy
Includes contemporary milestones and up-to-date historical assessments
⚠️ Cons
Dense academic text may feel overwhelming for casual readers
Large and heavy format due to its comprehensive length
❓ FAQ
Who authored History of the Theatre? +
The book was authored by Oscar G. Brockett and Franklin J. Hildy.
What edition is the 40th Anniversary Edition? +
The 40th Anniversary Edition is the tenth edition of the text.
How many pages are in this edition? +
The book spans 687 pages.
Does the book only cover Western theatre? +
No, the text provides worldwide coverage, including theatrical traditions from various global regions.
What visual aids are included in the book? +
It includes more than 530 photos, illustrations, and useful maps.
