This anthology investigates the evolution of modern dramatic structure and thematic concerns from the late nineteenth century through the mid-twentieth century. John Gassner, a prominent theater historian and critic, compiles a selection of seminal plays to demonstrate the shift from realism to the avant-garde. By organizing these works chronologically, the text provides a framework for understanding how playwrights responded to the changing social and political landscapes of their respective eras.

Scholars and students of drama frequently cite this collection as a foundational resource for studying the development of modern theatrical movements. Readers often note the academic rigor of the editorial introductions, which provide necessary historical context for the included scripts.