Histrio-Mastix, originally published in 1610, is a controversial and provocative work by the English playwright and polemicist, William Prynne. The book is a scathing attack on the theatre and actors, whom Prynne saw as immoral and corrupting influences on society. Prynne argues that theatre is a sinful and dangerous activity that encourages vice and immorality, and that actors are morally bankrupt and sexually promiscuous.The book was widely criticized and condemned by the theatre community and the public at large, and Prynne was eventually arrested and imprisoned for his views. However, his work has since become an important historical document, offering a fascinating insight into the attitudes and beliefs of early modern England.This edition of Histrio-Mastix, published in 1912, includes an introduction by the historian John S. Farmer, who provides context and background on the book and its author. The text itself has been carefully edited and annotated for modern readers, making it accessible and engaging for anyone interested in the history of theatre, literature, or social and cultural attitudes in early modern England.Text Is Old English.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.