The Story

This isn't one story, but a whole journey through the first few centuries of English comedy. Edited by Charles Mills Gayley, it starts with medieval "miracle plays" that had surprisingly cheeky devils and moves through the 1500s. You'll read works by pioneers like John Heywood and Nicholas Udall, whose play Ralph Roister Doister is often called the first real English comedy. The book ends right before Shakespeare changes everything. It shows comedy evolving from simple, moral tales to more complex plays about everyday people and their silly problems.

Why You Should Read It

Reading these plays is a blast because they're so recognizable. The jokes about greedy neighbors, foolish lovers, and snobby officials still land. It shatters the idea that people in the past were humorless. The book does a great job of introducing each play, so you understand the historical context without feeling lectured. You get to see the raw materials—the stock characters, the plot devices—that later geniuses like Shakespeare would polish into masterpieces.

Final Verdict

Perfect for curious readers who love theater, history, or just a good joke. If you've ever enjoyed Shakespeare's comedies and thought, "Where did this come from?" this is your answer. It's also great for writers looking to understand the foundations of comic structure. It might feel a bit academic at first glance, but the plays themselves are lively, short, and full of personality. A truly rewarding peek into the workshop of English humor.