Widely performed and studied, The Alchemist is one of the world's great comedies. It was first performed in 1610, and its success kept it in the repertory until the closing of the theatres by Cromwell's Protectorate. This edition is base on a reconsideration of the early texts, with a modernization of spelling and punctuation. The comprehensive introduction details Jonson's life and the play's stage history, discusses the text in detail, and has a section of special interest on alchemy. This is a must for scholars and theater-goers alike.