The Old Miracle Plays of England

Syrett delves into the religious and social context of the plays which were performed as part of ecclesiastical festivals or by guilds in public settings. These dramas brought Bible stories and Christian teachings to life for largely illiterate audiences using vivid dialogue allegorical characters and elaborate stagecraft. Syrett describes well-known cycles such as the York Chester and Wakefield plays highlighting key pieces like The Second Shepherds' Play and the dramatic representation of Christ’s Passion. In addition to summarizing the content of these plays Syrett discusses their moral and spiritual aims as well as their theatrical innovations. She also examines how the plays transitioned from purely religious instruction to include more comedic and secular elements reflecting changes in medieval society.