Review by Library Journal Review
Kabatchnik (emeritus, theater, SUNY Binghamton, Stanford Univ., Ohio State Univ.) continues his "Blood on the Stage" series, here focusing on 19th-century plays from the United States and Europe. Extensive synopses, playwright information, and review quotes from the period highlight works of "murder, mystery and mayhem." The plays are presented in chronological order, and theatrical premieres are examined along with their initial reception and later revivals. Kabatchnik provides succinct profiles of selections such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's Faust, Leo Tolstoy's The Power of Darkness, and Henrik Ibsen's An Enemy of the People, placing them in historical context and considering their importance. The book also highlights adaptations from classical literature, such as Jane Eyre, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and Sherlock Holmes. Appendixes include a discussion of plays involving poison, trial plays, and classic revenge tragedies. Bibliographical notes at the end of each entry feature reference material for theater historians. Libraries need not own the whole series, as each volume details a different era. VERDICT This specialty resource offers a window into the theatergoing experience of the time. Recommended for academic libraries and larger public libraries seeking to develop their theater history collections.-Barbara Kundanis, Longmont P.L., CO © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Library Journal Review
