English Mystery Plays

English Mystery Plays by Peter Happe is a comprehensive collection published by Penguin Books Limited on November 27, 1975. This edition spans 713 pages and is presented in English. The book features a selection of thirty-eight plays that celebrate the Christian narrative, encompassing themes from the Fall of Lucifer to Judgment Day. The plays are characterized by their humor, pathos, and the dramatic portrayal of the Crucifixion and Resurrection, reflecting the vibrant community efforts in their production, particularly in Chester, York, and Wakefield.

Readers will find that this anthology retains the enthusiasm and vitality of medieval drama, showcasing the significant influence these works had on later playwrights. The collection offers insights into the religious and liturgical aspects of European drama, while also serving as a resource for literary criticism. By presenting a composite cycle of mystery plays, this volume highlights the communal energies devoted to their creation and the enduring immediacy of their narratives.