Galatea (Gallathea) - John Lyly

Cover ISBN: 9780719088056

Galatea, also known as Gallathea, is an Elizabethan comedy written by John Lyly. The play was first performed on New Year's Day, 1588, at Greenwich Palace before Queen Elizabeth I and her court by the Children of St. Paul's, a troupe of boy actors. The story is set in a Lincolnshire village and the neighbouring woods, featuring a mix of characters including Greek deities, nymphs, fairies, and shepherds. The plot revolves around two young women, Galatea and Phillida, who are disguised as boys by their fathers to avoid being sacrificed to a sea monster as demanded by the god Neptune. This cross-dressing theme, common in Elizabethan drama, adds layers of complexity to the exploration of identity and love. The play was first printed in 1592 and has been noted for its influence on later works, particularly in its use of cross-dressing and pastoral settings. Recently adapted in 2023 (isbn 9781350426702).

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ISBNs of note: 9780719088056, 9781350426702

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