This collection of William Empson's essays on drama is the second volume of his writings on Renaissance literature. Edited by leading Empson scholar John Haffenden, the contents range from essays on The Spanish Tragedy, Volpone and The Duchess of Malfi to a sprightly piece on Elizabethan spirits. In addition, there are several hitherto unpublished essays, including a magnificent, provocative new reading of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Throughout the volume Empson fights his own critical corner with unequaled zest, intelligence and insight.