The purpose of this study was to arrive at conclusions regarding the nature and background of the anonymous playwright of the medieval morality play Mankind (composed c. 1470). The presumed audience for this study is the group of readers who criticize, produce, or perform medieval English drama. An analysis was conducted according to the precepts of classical rhetoric as it appeared in the dialogue of the evil characters Nought, New-Guise, Nowadays, Mischief, and Titivillus. The lines of these characters were closely read for clues as to the rhetorical perspective of the playwright.In addition to the classical evidence, the study gathered textual evidence of Germanic pagan influences upon the playwright. The researcher arrived at the conclusion that the classical and Germanic influences were significant in the playwright's choice of actions and dramatic devices. The study includes a review of literature and a synopsis of the action of the play.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/183041 |
| Date | January 1984 |
| Creators | Brown, Vincent J. |
| Contributors | Hozeski, Bruce W. |
| Source Sets | Ball State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Format | 56 leaves ; 28 cm. |
| Source | Virtual Press |
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