Chapters in this theoretically savvy and global study consider productions such as Orson Welles's groundbreaking examination of European Fascism, Joseph Mankeiwicz's Oscar winning 1953 film, politically complex productions at the Royal Shakespeare Company, and shows from around the world which interrogate their own cultural and educational context as well as pressing contemporary concerns such as the reach of mass media.
The result blows the dust off a play sometimes considered old-fashioned, navigates its thorny theatrical qualities and revels in those productions which have so excited audiences.