Ionesco: A Study of His Plays

by Richard N. Coe

First published in 1971, Ionesco is a study of the plays written by the absurdist playwright Eugene Ionesco. Eugene Ionesco’s play La Cantatrice Chauve, first presented in 1950, established him as one of the most provocative leaders of post-war ‘Theatre of the Absurd’. By 1970, his work had been performed by leading actors and companies all over the world. The author attempts to understand this enigmatic playwright and his plays, while trying to explore the reasons behind his quick popularity. This book will be of interest to students of literature, drama, philosophy, and history.

216 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1971

Reviews

[Ivy-Mabel Fling · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I returned to studying in my dotage, I was warned by one of the tutors that reading literary criticism was an antiquated and useless habit. However, I have not yet been able to get over it and would thoroughly recommend Mr Coe's work if you are struggling to understand Ionesco's plays! Mr Coe goes into the author's biography, the evolution of his works/philosophy and the reception his plays were given - all this helped me a great deal. If you choose to read this book (£1.99 from Oxfam), I would suggest you read as many of the plays as possible before you start, also those of Beckett and Genet. Then you will benefit more from Mr Coe's erudition!!