A Select Collection of Old English Plays, Volume 03

This volume gathers a handful of rare English interludes from the mid‑sixteenth century, revived in a careful modern edition that preserves the original verse while adding helpful commentary. The centerpiece, a short drama titled ‘New Custom’, was printed in 1573 as a polemic in favour of the Reformation, using personified virtues and vices to expose the dangers of false doctrine and superstition. Its brisk dialogue and vivid allegory offer a window into the religious debates that shaped Tudor England, all presented in the lively, rhymed prose of its time.

Listeners will hear four characters—Perverse Doctrine, Ignorance, Hypocrisy and New Custom—each embodying a particular flaw or belief, as they clash in a courtroom‑like opening scene that dramatizes the conflict between old Catholic practices and emerging Protestant ideals. The play’s concise structure, witty repartee, and moral clarity make it an engaging listening experience, while the scholarly notes guide the ear through archaic language and historical context. Ideal for those who enjoy early modern drama and the persuasive power of theatrical allegory.