Love’s Victory

Love’s Victory by Lady Mary Wroth is published by Manchester University Press in 2021 and spans 240 pages. This edition presents the first romantic comedy written in English by a woman, featuring a fully-authorized, modern spelling version of the Penshurst manuscript, which is the sole copy of the play containing all five acts. The text is edited by Alison Findlay, Philip Sidney, and Michael G. Brennan, who provide a critical introduction that explores Wroth’s life and her connections to the Sidney family, as well as the broader context of her work.

Readers will find extensive commentary notes that include explanatory glosses, literary references, and staging information, enhancing their understanding of the play. The editors also delve into the influence of court drama on Love’s Victory and offer insights into its stage history, covering productions from 1999 to 2018. This edition serves as a valuable resource for those interested in drama, literary criticism, and the Renaissance, providing a comprehensive look at Wroth’s contributions to the performing arts.