An accessible survey of the development of naturalism and its effects on modern-day theatre. Taking into account the philosophical, scientific and aesthetic ideas that constituted the movement during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the book examines why naturalism is still a dominant mode of performance in theatre.

In this anthology incarcerated me in the Prison Literacy Project at S.C.I. Graterford contribute pieces about regretful decisions made or painful experiences in their youth, fearlessly exposing their vulnerability. The men chose many methods for sharing their messages; some wrote letters to their young selves or family members, telling of their struggles growing up in difficult circumstances. They reached out from behind the prison walls to caution young offenders while they still have time to change their lives, but they speak to us all. They remind us all about choices, consequences, and caring for others.

An accessible survey of the development of naturalism and its effects on modern-day theatre. Taking into account the philosophical, scientific and aesthetic ideas that constituted the movement during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the book examines why naturalism is still a dominant mode of performance in theatre.