Book excerpt: Covering the period 1879 to 1959, from Ibsen to Beckett, this book is an examination of the plays, dramatists, and movements that comprise modern world drama. Contains detailed analysis of plays and playwrights and connecting themes. Includes coverage of non-English works and traditions to create a global view of modern drama. Considers the influence of modernism in art, music, literature, architecture, society, and politics on the formation of modern dramatic literature