Did you know that theatre can wield significant cultural power, shaping public opinion and influencing how we remember historical events? This book uniquely assesses how playwrights grapple with historical accuracy, artistic license, and the interpretation of source material. It emphasizes that the most compelling historical plays respect historical integrity while exploring deeper truths about the human condition.
The approach involves examining case studies of prominent historical dramas, from Shakespeare to contemporary works, and analyzing playwrights' choices and their impact on audiences. The book progresses by first establishing a conceptual framework, then examining case studies, and finally offering practical guidelines for playwrights and audiences.
It provides tools for critical viewing and proposes a framework for responsible storytelling, guiding readers to thoughtfully engage with dramatic representations of history.