This book serves as a comprehensive introduction to the study of drama, offering a curated selection of plays and critical essays to illuminate the evolution and structure of theatrical works. Authored by Mark Pape and Oscar G. Brockett, the text draws upon extensive historical and critical scholarship to present 18 plays, ranging from ancient Greek tragedies to modern dramatic pieces. Each play is accompanied by an introductory essay that contextualizes it within its historical period and critical landscape. The book also features three significant essays on dramatic theory: "Drama and its Structure," "Form in Drama," and "Drama in Classical Greece," providing foundational knowledge for analyzing theatrical texts.

This work is structured as an academic introduction, likely intended for students of theater and literature. The inclusion of foundational essays alongside a curated play selection suggests a pedagogical approach aimed at building analytical skills. The breadth of plays covered indicates a comprehensive overview of dramatic history and form.