Rowland Wymer

This book gives detailed and original critical readings of all eleven of Derek Jarman's feature-length films, arguing that he occupies a major and influential place in European and world cinema rather than merely being a cult figure. It places particular emphasis on the importance of Renaissance art and literature for Jarman, and emphasises his interest in Jungian psychology. Wymer shows how Jarman used his films to take his audience with him on an inner journey in search of the self, whilst remaining fully aware of the dangers of such a journey. Making substantial use of Jarman's unpublished papers as well as all his published works, Wymer argues that the films are orientated towards a much wider audience than is often supposed. They are addressed to anyone, of whatever gender or sexuality, who is prepared to go on a journey in search of him or her self and to become Jarman's accomplice in 'the dream world of the soul'.

The reputation of Webster and Ford is based on a handful of tragedies which display extreme situations and emotional intensity. Productions since 1945 have helped to vindicate the enthusiastic judgement of 19th-century Romantic critics and demonstrated that these plays retain their capacity to disturb audiences, arousing strong responses of both horror and pity. The author outlines the careers of both dramatists and illuminates the Jacobean and Caroline theatre contexts. It includes a detailed analysis of six plays, emphasizing their emotional power and theatrical effectiveness, and makes frequent references to modern performances. The plays considered include "The White Devil", "The Duchess of Malfi" and "'Tis Pity She's a Whore".