This collection of essays by Robert Brustein examines the intersection of theater and societal shifts during a pivotal period in the late 1970s. Brustein, a prominent theater critic and administrator, draws upon his extensive experience to analyze how dramatic productions reflected and influenced the cultural and political landscape of the time. The book presents a critical perspective on the evolution of American theater and its role in broader social discourse.

This collection is likely regarded as a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of theater history and criticism, offering a contemporary perspective on a specific era. Brustein's established reputation suggests the essays provide insightful and informed commentary on the period's theatrical output and its societal connections. The focus on a defined timeframe indicates a potentially deep dive into the nuances of that particular moment in cultural history.