The White Devil: A Critical Reader (Arden Early Modern Drama Guides)

The White Devil is one of the most violent and most fascinating plays in English theatrical history. It is also a notoriously challenging work; this volume offers a practical, accessible and thought-provoking guide to the play, surveying its major themes and critical reception. It also provides a detailed and up-to-date history of the play’s performance, beginning with its first staging in 1611 staging and ending with the RSC’s 2014 revival. Moving through to four new critical essays, it opens up cutting-edge perspectives on the work, and finishes with a practical guide to pedagogical approaches and resources. Detailing web-based and production-related resources, and including an annotated bibliography of critical works, the guide will equip teachers and facilitate students’ understanding of this complex play.

Lisa Hopkins is Professor of English at University of Sheffield Hallam. She has published numerous works on Shakespeare including her most recent work, Beginning Shakespeare (2005) and has written on film adaptations including Screening the Gothic. She is the Senior Editor of the online journal, Early Modern Literary Studies.

Paul Frazer is Lecturer in Early Modern Literature at the University of Northumbria, UK.

Andrew Hiscock is Professor of English at Bangor University, UK.

Adam Hansen is Lecturer in English at Northumbria University, UK.


Adam Hansen is Senior Lecturer in English Literature and Programme Leader, Northumbria University, UK.