Publisher's Synopsis
An examination of Thomas Middleton's best-known work which analyzes how he used the play to transmit anti-Catholic propaganda in "code", thus circumventing the stringent censorship laws of the early-17th century.;Through a close analysis of the text and comparison with contemporary tracts and pamphlets, the authors demonstrate that the play is a brilliant synthesis of Calvinist concerns of the moment and a powerful statement of condemnation of the current state of the nation. The authors also argue that while writing a play of ingenious topicality, Middleton is at the same time presenting a powerful exposition of his sombre view of human nature.
