The new edition of this standard textbook has been revised and expanded in response to lecturers" comments. It provides a comprehensive introduction to play texts, and looks at key elements of drama such as character, dialogue, plot, action, the body, and space. The book also discusses theatricality and sets drama in its historical context. Drawing on examples from King Lear, A Doll"s House, Waiting for Godot, and The Tempest among others, the textbook is suitable for beginning students of drama. The book is part of the series that includes Studying the Novel and Studying Poetry. Mick Wallis is Professor of Performance and Culture at the University of Leeds, UK Simon Shepherd is a Professor at The Central School of Speech and Drama, London, UK The new edition of this standard textbook has been revised and expanded in response to lecturers" comments. It provides a comprehensive introduction to play texts, and looks at key elements of drama such as character, dialogue, plot, action, the body, and space. The book also discusses theatricality and sets drama in its historical context. Drawing on examples from King Lear, A Doll"s House, Waiting for Godot, and The Tempest among others, the textbook is suitable for beginning students of drama. The book is part of the series that includes Studying the Novel and Studying Poetry. "Comprehensive, thoughtful and accessibly written."—Research in Drama Education "Comprehensive, thoughtful and accessibly written."—Research in Drama Education