Roscius Anglicanus

"Roscius Anglicanus" is an essential primary source for the history of the English stage during the Restoration period. Written by John Downes, who served as a prompter for the Duke's Company for over forty years, this work provides a firsthand account of the London theatrical world from the reopening of the theaters in 1660 until 1706. The narrative offers detailed records of plays, casting choices, and production successes, capturing the evolution of drama under the reigns of Charles II, James II, and William and Mary.

Downes chronicles the careers of legendary performers such as Thomas Betterton and the competition between the major acting companies of the era. As a chronicle of the transition from the Elizabethan tradition to the professionalized modern stage, "Roscius Anglicanus" preserves vital information on the repertoire and performance practices of the seventeenth century. This work is indispensable for scholars of dramatic literature, theater historians, and readers interested in the vibrant cultural life of Stuart England. Its meticulous recording of theatrical facts and anecdotes makes it a cornerstone text for understanding the development of the British theater.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

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