The drama observed /

Distinguished Shavian scholar Dukore has compiled and annotated the most complete collection that has ever been published of Shaw's celebrated drama criticism. Framed by an instructive introductory essay and a comprehensive concluding index, this compilation contains 318 chronologically arranged pieces, "of which," Dukore tells us, "100, almost a third, are new to today's readers." Also included are 150 items from two existing works of Shavian reflection on stagecraft--Our Theatre in the Nineties (1931) and Pen Portraits and Reviews (1900)--that Dukore believes may likewise be new to many readers, as well as both the 1891 and 1913 editions of what is perhaps Shaw's best-known critical commentary on the drama, The Quintessence of Ibsenism. Dukore, however, does exclude selections from Shaw's prefaces and music criticism, on the ground that this material is readily available elsewhere. Significantly redundant passages and private utterances (with two exceptions) are similarly passed over. Spanning seven decades of professional activity, from April 7, 1880, to May 6, 1950, these observations explore virtually every facet of the drama and its interpretation. Collectively, the selections amply demonstrate why Shaw is generally ranked among the finest theater critics in the English language. On display here, centerstage, for our enjoyment and edification, is the full repertoire of Shaw's formidable intelligence, wit, and rhetorical prowess. As always, whether Shaw is functioning as a commentator or playwright, his high purpose is to spare no one's feelings in defending the eternal against the temporal. All college and university libraries should consider adding this collection. Advanced undergraduate; graduate; professional. H. I. Einsohn; Middlesex Community College