The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids)
by Elizabeth Cary
The Tragedy of Mariam, the Fair Queen of Jewry is a Jacobean closet drama by Elizabeth Tanfield Cary. First published in 1613, it was the first work by a woman to be published under her real name. Never performed during Cary's lifetime, and apparently never intended for performance, the Senecan revenge tragedy tells the story of Mariam, the second wife of Herod. The play exposes and explores the themes of sex, divorce, betrayal, murder, and Jewish society under Herod's tyrannous rule.
The wide-ranging introduction discusses the play in the context of closet drama, female dramatists and feminist criticism, providing an ideal edition for study and teaching. This is a major edition of an unusual and provocative play not widely available elsewhere.
Discuss The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids) with other readers
Join or start a book club for The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids) on Readfeed. Live chat, shared reading progress, and AI discussion questions — free to get started.
Frequently asked questions
How do I join a book club for The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids)?
Sign up free on Readfeed, then browse public clubs or start your own club with The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids) as the current read. Invite friends with a share link and discuss together with live chat and AI discussion questions.
Can I discuss The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids) with other readers online?
Yes. Readfeed book clubs let you chat live, share progress, and join discussions about The Tragedy of Mariam (New Mermaids) with readers worldwide — whether your club is virtual, in-person, or hybrid.
Is Readfeed free?
Yes. Creating an account and joining book clubs is free. Sign up to find readers who love the same books and start discussing today.