The Alchemist A Critical Reader

Described by Coleridge as having one of the three most
perfectly constructed plots in literary history, The Alchemist is a
play that is strikingly modern in its cynicism.This guide, with new essays by leading
scholars, provides a comprehensive survey of major issues in the contemporary
study of the play and points to new avenues for critical exploration.

Throughout the book, chapters explore such issues as:

• The play's critical reception from the Restoration to the 21st century.

• The performance history of the play, from Jonson's own time through to recent
productions.
• Key themes in current scholarship, from issues of gender to Jonson's use of
scatological humour.

The Alchemist: A Critical Guide also includes a complete guide to
resources available on the play - including critical editions, online resources
and an annotated bibliography - and how they might be used to aid both the
teaching and study of Jonson's comedy.

The New copy of this book will include any supplemental materials advertised. Please check the title of the book to determine if it should include any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.

The Used, Rental and eBook copies of this book are not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. Typically, only the book itself is included. This is true even if the title states it includes any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.