This book asserts the extraordinary quality of mid-twentieth century
playwright Terence Rattigan's dramatic art and its basis in his use of
subtext, implication, and understatement. By discussing every play in
chronological order, the book also articulates the trajectory of
Rattigan's darkening vision of the human potential for happiness from
his earlier comedies through his final plays in which death appears as a
longed for peace. New here is the exploration through close analysis of
Rattigan's style of writing dialogue and speeches, and how that style
expresses Rattigan's sense of life. Likewise, the book newly examines
how Rattigan draws on sources in Greek and Roman history, literature,
and myth, as well as how he invites comparison with the work of other
playwrights, especially Bernard Shaw and Shakespeare. It will appeal
broadly to college and university students studying dramatic literature,
but also and especially to actors and directors, and the play-going,
play-reading public.