A Sourcebook on Naturalist Theatre

Naturalism is one of the key movements in modern theatre, forming the basis for mainstream plays throughout the modern period and dominating theatrical form today. Christopher Innes begins by giving a fascinating overview of naturalist theatre on themes such as the representation of women, significant contemporary issues and the links between theory, play writing and stage practice. The author explores the many aspects of naturalism, citing information on the playwright's intentions when writing the plays, contemporary reviews, political and social background and production notes from early performances of the plays. The playwrights and their plays are: Henrik Ibsen-A Doll's HouseandHedda Gabler, Anton Chekhov-The SeagullandThe Cherry Orchard, and George Bernard Shaw-Mrs. Warren's ProfessionandHeartbreak House.