Dr. Faustus is one of the jewels of early modern English drama, and is
still widely performed today. Interestingly, the play has come down to
the contemporary audience in two distinct versions that have become
known as the 'A' and the 'B' texts. David Bevington and Eric Rasmussen,
who edited the original Revels edition over twenty years ago (and are
two of the most eminent editors currently working), have hit upon the
fascinating idea of presenting both texts on facing pages. This allows
readers to compare the two 'versions', the 'A' text which is the one
closest to Marlowe, and the longer 'B' text with additions by Samuel
Rowley; in this unique edition, the reader is made aware of the changing
tastes of audiences, the stage history of the play, and of just how
intricate 'editing' a play can be.
With a concise and illuminating introduction, and relevant notes and
images, this Revels Student Edition of the 'A' and 'B' texts of Dr.
Faustus will prove to be an enthralling document, and an excellent
edition for student and theatre-goer alike.