Living Theatre: A History of Theatre 7th Edition

by Edwin Wilson, Alvin Goldfarb

Key Highlights

  • β€’πŸ“š Comprehensive coverage of global theatre history from ancient origins to modern times.
  • β€’βœ¨ Features the trusted scholarship of renowned theatre historians Edwin Wilson and Alvin Goldfarb.
  • β€’πŸ”„ Updated 7th Edition ensures relevance and incorporates current perspectives.

Description

Step onto the stage of history with Living Theatre: A History of Theatre 7th Edition! This comprehensive theatre history book, brought to you by acclaimed scholars Edwin Wilson and Alvin Goldfarb, is your ultimate guide to the vibrant evolution of theatre across cultures and centuries. Ever wanted to truly understand how theatre got to where it is today? This is the book for you.

Who is this book for? It’s perfect for theatre students needing a solid foundation, actors and directors wanting historical context, educators looking for a reliable textbook, or simply anyone fascinated by the rich tapestry of theatre history. Whether you're just starting your journey in theatre studies or are a seasoned enthusiast, this book offer valuable insights.

What problem does this book solve? Feeling overwhelmed by the vastness of theatre history? Struggling to connect the dots between different eras, styles, and cultural influences? Living Theatre breaks it all down. It provides a clear, chronological narrative, making complex historical developments accessible and engaging. It helps you grasp the 'why' behind different theatrical traditions and understand their lasting impact.

What will you gain from reading it? You'll get a deep appreciation for theatre's global heritage, from its ancient origins to contemporary forms. Understand key movements, influential figures, and the cultural contexts that shaped them. This book provide a strong framework for analysing plays and performances, enriching your understanding and enjoyment of theatre. Plus, being the 7th edition, it includes updated perspectives and information.

Why is it worth reading? Wilson and Goldfarb are respected names in theatre scholarship, and Living Theatre has been a go-to resource for years. Its blend of historical detail and engaging storytelling makes learning about theatre history genuinely enjoyable, not just educational. It's a foundational text that many theatre programs reccomend for a reason. Ready to explore the dynamic world of theatre history? Download the Living Theatre: A History of Theatre 7th Edition PDF today and start your journey!

FAQ

Is this book suitable for someone completely new to theatre history?

Yes! While comprehensive, it's written in an accessible way, making it a great starting point for beginners and students.

Does 'Living Theatre' cover theatre outside of Europe and America?

Absolutely. The book aims for a global perspective, exploring theatre traditions from various cultures across different historical periods.

What's new in the 7th Edition compared to previous ones?

The 7th edition typically includes updated scholarship, revised sections, potentially new images, and ensures the content remains relevant to contemporary understanding of theatre history.

Can I use this book for my university theatre course?

Very likely! *Living Theatre* is a widely used and respected textbook in many university theatre programs. Check your course syllabus, but it's a standard text.

Is the PDF format easy to navigate or search?

PDF formats usually allow for text searching (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F), which can be very helpful for finding specific information quickly for study or research.

Does the book include many pictures or illustrations?

Theatre history texts like this often include images, illustrations, and photographs to help visualize historical periods, costumes, and stage designs, though the exact number may vary.

Reader Reviews

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DramaGeek92(Theatre Student)
Saved my life for my Theatre History 101 class! Really comprehensive but doesn't feel too dry. The chronological approach make it easy to follow. Highly reccomend the PDF for easy searching.
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StageCraftSteve(Aspiring Director)
A solid overview of theatre history. Gives great context for understanding different playwriting styles and staging conventions. Wish it had a bit more on non-Western theatre, but still very valuable.
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HistoryLover88(History Buff)
I'm not even in theatre, but I found this fascinating! It connects theatre so well to broader cultural and historical shifts. Very well-written.
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ProfEllington(Theatre Educator)
I've used Wilson and Goldfarb for years. The 7th edition continues its tradition of reliable scholarship and student-friendly presentation. A cornerstone text for any introductory course.
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CasualReader5(Theatre Goer)
Wanted to know more about the background of the plays I see. This book was perfect! Learned so much about how theatre evolved. Sometimes a bit dense, but worth it.
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BardFanatic(Actor)
Good resource for understanding the historical context of classical plays. Helps bring more depth to character work. The PDF format is convenient.
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GlobalStage(World Literature Student)
It does cover global theatre, but I felt the focus was still heavily Eurocentric. Good starting point, but needed more balance for my specific interests.

About the Author

Edwin Wilson (1927-2020) was a distinguished American drama critic, author, and professor, notably teaching at Hunter College and CUNY Graduate Center. Alvin Goldfarb is a respected theatre historian, author, and former university administrator, known for his accessible yet scholarly contributions to understanding theatre history. Together, their expertise shaped *Living Theatre* into a standard academic text.