Title: The Spanish Tragedy
Author: Thomas Kyd
First published January 1, 1592
104 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781406500424 (ISBN10: 1406500429)
Rating: 3.56
Overview
This book is a must-read for those interested in the history of English theatre. It has greatly influenced the development of Elizabethan drama and created a new genre – the revenge play.
With a large format for easy reading, readers can immerse themselves in the captivating story and the unique style of Thomas Kyd. Don’t miss out on this classic piece of literature!
About the Author
Thomas Kyd was a prominent English playwright and a crucial figure in the evolution of Elizabethan theater. He authored The Spanish Tragedy, which earned him widespread recognition during his time.
However, his work faded into obscurity until 1773 when Thomas Hawkins, an early editor of The Spanish Tragedy, revealed that Kyd was credited as its author by Thomas Heywood in his Apologie for Actors (1612). In the following century, scholars in England and Germany began to investigate Kyd’s life and works.
These studies revealed that Kyd may have written a version of Hamlet before Shakespeare’s, which remains a controversial topic.
Editoral Review
Thomas Kyd’s The Spanish Tragedy is a seminal work in the Elizabethan revenge tragedy genre. First published in 1592, it is often cited as one of the best examples of this type of play, which was popular in the late 16th and early 17th century.
In this review, we will explore Kyd’s play, discussing its themes, characters, and plot. Kyd’s writing style is reflective of Elizabethan sensibilities, with a focus on courtly ideals and the morality of revenge.
The play’s central concept is justice and the revenge-driven nature of the human condition. The Spanish Tragedy follows the journey of Hieronimo, the play’s protagonist, as he avenges the murder of his son, Horatio.
Despite its grisly subject matter, The Spanish Tragedy remains one of the most significant works of the Elizabethan revenge tragedy genre. The play is replete with violent imagery and vivid descriptions of human suffering, portraying the darker side of human nature in all its complexity.
Through Hieronimo’s journey of vengeance, the play explores themes of justice, power, and corruption. The play is set in Spain and features a host of memorable characters, including Hieronimo’s wife, Isabella, and the vengeful ghost of Horatio.
The plot is convoluted and features many twists and turns, culminating in a dramatic and bloody finale. One of the most significant aspects of The Spanish Tragedy is its historical and cultural significance.
The play was written during the reign of Elizabeth I, a time when authors often used their works to comment on the social and political issues of the day. Kyd was no exception and his play serves as a critique of the corrupt nature of court politics.
In terms of its quality, The Spanish Tragedy is a masterpiece of Elizabethan drama. Kyd’s writing is both poetic and visceral, his characters complex and engaging.
The play’s pacing is excellent, building towards a cathartic and impactful finale. However, it is not without flaws.
The complex plot can be difficult to follow at times, and some of the play’s language may be challenging for modern audiences to understand. Overall, The Spanish Tragedy is a must-read for fans of Elizabethan drama and anyone interested in the history of English literature.
It is a striking example of the revenge tragedy genre, featuring memorable characters and a plot that remains compelling to this day. While its language may be challenging, the play’s themes and characterizations are still relevant, making it a work that deserves to be revisited.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
