A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 01

"A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 01" by Dodsley and Hazlitt is a collection of early English dramatic works published in the late 19th century. This volume, revised and expanded, aims to revive notable plays that have previously suffered from neglect or obscurity, presenting them in chronological order to highlight the evolution of English drama. The collection includes a diverse range of interludes and moral plays, showcasing themes that reflect the cultural and social landscape of the time. The opening of this volume features a detailed preface that outlines the rationale behind the new arrangement and selection of plays included. The first piece in the collection is the "Interlude of the Four Elements," which introduces various characters that personify nature and human desires, weaving together elements of philosophy and natural science in a humorous manner. As the play unfolds, it engages with topics such as the properties of the four elements and philosophical musings on humanity's place in the world. This playful interaction sets the tone for the mix of entertainment and thoughtful examination found in this collection of old English plays. (This is an automatically generated summary.)