The Works of John Marston. Volume 1

This volume brings together the sharp‑tongued dramas and poems of a restless Elizabethan playwright, whose work moves from biting satire to fiercely personal vengeance. The editor’s careful scholarship untangles corrupted texts, offering listeners clear, engaging renditions while preserving the original’s fiery energy. An opening note explains the poet’s self‑imposed “oblivion” and sets the stage for a collection that still sparks debate over morality, power, and theatrical invention.

Within, you’ll encounter the tangled schemes of Antonio and Mellida and the bitterly witty revenge of The Malcontent, each illuminated by brief plot summaries that guide you without spoiling later twists. Marston’s characters wrestle with ambition, hypocrisy, and the darker sides of human desire, delivering dialogue that crackles with wit and urgency. For anyone curious about the turbulent spirit of early modern drama, these works offer a vivid, audible window into a world where satire and tragedy intersect.