The "bible" in the field, History of the Theatre is the most comprehensive and widely used survey of theatre history in the market.

The Ninth Edition retains all of the traditional features that have made History of the Theatre a classic for more than thirty years, including more than 530 photos and illustrations, useful maps, and the expertise of Oscar Brockett, one of the most widely respected theatre historians in the field. Franklin J. Hildy contributes his scholarship and experience throughout the text and, in particular, to a discussion of English Theatre/Shakespeare (Ch. 5). Reorganized with more uniform chapter lengths and a clearer chronology, the Ninth Edition continues to provide the most thorough and accurate assessment of theatre history available.