Abstract
This article investigates Neville Denny's statement (1974): "Following on Dr. Browne's [E. Martin Browne] pioneering work in the field, a host of medieval plays have come to be revived, very few of them, alas, for one reason or another, in any attempt at authentic reconstruction." Given the inherent difficulties of creating authentic reconstruction this work suggests ways of dealing with appropriate criteria and methods of achieving authentic reconstruction. I have discussed the potential value of using explicit stage directions, or as I have re-termed them, records of performance as pivotal stimuli for engaging in attempts to create authentic reconstruction since they record moments of action determined by observers. Issues of authenticity are discussed in relation to pageant vehicles, street performance, readiness for action, split focus, simultaneous action, waiting, walking about the place, direct address, didactic action, signs, and "ornaments."
Recommended Citation
Butterworth, Philip
(2025)
"Revival, Reconstruction, and Authenticity in the Reproduction of Medieval English Theatre,"
ROMARD: Vol. 61, Article 4.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/romard/vol61/iss1/4
