Burlesque Plays and Poems

Burlesque Plays and Poems, published in 1885, is a collection of comedic works and poems that exemplify the burlesque tradition in English literature. This anthology features notable pieces such as Chaucer's 'Rime of Sir Thopas' and Beaumont and Fletcher's 'Knight of the Burning Pestle,' which satirize literary forms and societal norms through humor and mockery. The collection, introduced by Henry Morley, highlights the art of jesting and the playful subversion of traditional storytelling, showcasing the comedic techniques of its authors and their ability to entertain while critiquing their subjects.