This book isn't a novel with a single plot. Instead, it's a carefully chosen collection of early English comedies, starting with medieval plays and moving right up to Shakespeare's immediate predecessors. Editor Charles Mills Gayley acts as your guide, picking plays that show comedy evolving. You'll start with religious plays that have funny bits, then see comedy break free into stories about everyday people, love, and mischief. The journey ends just as Shakespeare is about to change everything.

Why You Should Read It

Reading these plays is like discovering a secret history of laughter. The big surprise is how recognizable the humor is. Yes, some jokes need a footnote, but the core situations—the grumpy old man, the young lovers scheming, the witty friend who saves the day—are timeless. You can see the raw materials Shakespeare would later polish into masterpieces. It’s incredibly satisfying to spot where a famous Shakespearean bit might have gotten its start.

Final Verdict

Perfect for curious readers who love Shakespeare, theater history, or just great stories. If you've ever enjoyed A Midsummer Night's Dream or Twelfth Night and thought, 'I wonder what came before this?'—this is your book. It’s not a dry textbook; it’s a lively showcase of plays meant to be performed and enjoyed. You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for the genius of Elizabethan comedy by meeting its lively, hilarious ancestors.