The Works of John Marston. Volume 2

A vibrant snapshot of early‑modern English drama, this volume brings together four of Marston’s most spirited works, each pulsing with sharp wit, bustling city life, and the restless energy of the Renaissance stage. The plays shift effortlessly between rib‑tickling comedy and stirring tragedy, offering listeners a rich palette of characters—from roguish knaves and flamboyant courtesans to noble heroes wrestling with honor and desire. The language is lively and inventive, inviting you to hear the clever repartee and rhythmic verse that made these pieces favorites of the Children of the Queen’s Revels.

In “The Dutch Courtezan,” a young gentleman’s plan to escape a lover’s hold spirals into a tangled web of deception, duels, and mistaken identities, all set against a backdrop of bustling London streets and tavern intrigue. “The Wonder of Women” presents the legendary Sophonisba, whose courage and sacrifice illuminate the tragic stakes of love and politics, while “What You Will” and “The Fawn” showcase Marston’s flair for farce and social satire. Together, they form a compelling listening experience that captures the restless spirit of an era.