The History of the Theatre

by Franklin J. Hildy and Oscar Gross Brockett

Book Overview

Known as the "bible" of theatre history, Brockett and Hildy's History of the Theatre is the most comprehensive and widely used survey of theatre history in the market. This 40th Anniversary Edition... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0205281710
• ISBN13: 9780205281718
• Release Date: July 1998
• Publisher: Allyn & Bacon
• Length: 708 Pages
• Weight: 3.52 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 8.8" x 10.3"

Customer Reviews

i am in forit now

looks like the book showed up here just fine. now, i will have to take the course!

Great overview, especially for high school students

Having used the larger, fuller Brockett and Hildy's "History of the Theatre" for college students, I find the Foundation Edition especially good for high school students interested in theatre in general but who are not majoring in theatre. The Foundation Edition is shorter, more concise, yet retains the structure and essential discussions as the larger edition.

dry, but good

Having taken a course that required reading the book I can safely say that it is dry in some sections of history due to the "PC" nature of it's telling. But it's mostly an interesting resource and reference book for theatre buffs and history buffs alike.

Yes, Oscar Brockett is God

I had the pleasure of being Brock's student for three years at the University of Texas. The book is phenomenal, easy to read and amazingly complete. The History of the Theatre experience should also be augmented by the opportunity to hear Brockett speak. He is erudite, funny, a lively teacher and an incredible intellect. There is no other book to serve as a reference and introduction to theatre history. No other book and no other teacher so expertly and informatively makes you realize the interweaving of theatre and society throughout its long history. IMHO, Brockett should write the history not just of theatre but of everything. His non-didactic, straight-forward and lively prose would make any work of history or criticism on any subject a delight.

Oscar Brockett is God.

No other theatrical historian today commands the respect and authority that Oscar Brockett receives, and "The History of the Theatre" is his master work. As complete a guide to theatre history as any on the market, this book abounds with illustrations, maps, and helpful details. When you want ideas about theatre history, find an article. When you want facts and answers, consult the Brockett. A "must have" for any true scholar of the theatre.