Choice 评论
Leggatt (University College, Univ. of Toronto) offers undergraduate students, teachers of English and drama, and general readers a brief, enjoyable introduction to comedy of the English Renaissance. He surveys the field, devotes full chapters to important writers (less important writers share coverage), then looks at nine plays representing the range and variety of periods, styles, genres, and authors. Leggatt begins with individual plays and works out to the larger picture, inviting the reader, after a close reading of one play, to carry questions and ideas into the reading of other work by the same author and of the work of contemporary writers. The individual chapters stimulate; their accumulation gives a sense of the whole field. In his brief introduction, Leggatt defends his choice of playwrights and plays. Lyly, Greene, Shakespeare, Marston, Middleston, Jonson, Shirley, and Brome have their shining moments and sometimes unexpectedly connect. A brief conclusion summarizes the discussion. Endnotes follow each chapter; suggestions for further reading point to additional treasure hunting. Books such as this one can stir enthusiasm and spur scholarship. Leggatt's is recommended particularly for undergraduate collections. L. M. Tenbusch; Immaculata College