Women, writing, and the theater in the early modern period

the long version

"This book is the first monograph study offering in-depth analysis of the plays of Aphra Behn (1640-1689) and Suzanne Centlivre (1669?-1723), the first women writers to succeed in establishing life-long professional careers as dramatists. It explores how the Restoration stage provided a space for women dramatists to use for themselves. The previous revolutionary period in England had changed the nation enough for women's participation in all areas of society, politics, and religion to become feasible and visible. This emergent visibility gave them a chance to become actresses after 1661, and sparked their desire to offer contributions to the public stage after 1669."--BOOK JACKET.