Titus Andronicus

Michael D. Friedmans second edition of this stage history of Shakespeares Titus Andronicus adds an examination of twelve major theatrical productions and one film that appeared in the years 19892009. Friedman identifies four lines of descent in the recent performance history of the play: the stylised, realistic, darkly comic, and political approaches, which culminate in Julie Taymors harrowing film Titus (1999). Aspects of Taymors eclectic vision of ancient Rome under the grip of modern fascism were copied by several subsequent productions, making Titus the most characteristic, as well as the most influential, contemporary performance of the play. Friedmans work extends Alan Dessens original study to include Taymors film, along with chapters devoted to the efforts of international directors including Gregory Doran, Silviu Purcarete, and Yukio Ninagawa. -- .