Set in Ancient Rome, "Poetaster" offers one of the first and most subtle statements in English of the Augustan cultural ideal. Jonson contrasts Augustus' wise rule with an English polity dominated (like the stage) by malice, intrigue and envy. This text examines these different strands so skilfully interwoven by Jonson, and argues for a reassessment of "Poetaster" as one of the most ideologically interesting of all early modern plays. The accompanying explanatory notes guide the reader through the personal and political illusions which gave the play its immediate satirical impact.

About the Author
Tom Cain is Professor of Early Modern Literature at the University of East Anglia


Book Information
ISBN 9780719016370
Author Tom Cain
Format Paperback
Page Count 304
Imprint Manchester University Press
Publisher Manchester University Press
Weight(grams) 376g
Dimensions(mm) 216mm * 138mm * 17mm