Edited and with an Introduction by Frank KermodeA Woman Killed with Kindness by Thomas HeywoodVolpone by Ben JonsonThe Revenger’s Tragedy by Cyril TourneurThe Maid’s Tragedy by John Fletcher and Francis BeaumontA Chaste Maid in Cheapside by Thomas MiddletonThe Duchess of Malfi by John WebsterThe Changeling by Thomas Middleton and William RowleyThe lyrical, bloodthirsty tragedies and witty urban comedies in this original collection were first performed during the reign of King James I (1603—25). Though nearly four centuries old, they display surprisingly modern sensibilities regarding sex, violence, morality, and honor. Brilliantly introduced and annotated by Frank Kermode, these seven Jacobean masterpieces are the finest and most representative plays of a time when drama was the most vital and important mirror of English society.From the Trade Paperback edition.

Sir Frank Kermode is acknowledged as one of the greatest critics of our time, renowned for the wit humanity and good sense of his writing. Pleasing Myself brings together the very best of his shorter pieces, on topics ranging from Donne and Yeats to modern art and money.