A rich resource on 100 of the most important plays in literature. Which plays are truly great, and why? This unique reference profiles 100 of the greatest plays drawn from all cultures and periods of literature. Compiled in consultation with literary scholars, The Drama 100 is sure to engage students and theatergoers in a spirited discussion of literary values. The chosen plays include: *Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot *Anton Chekhov's The Cherry Orchard *Caryl Churchill's Cloud Nine *Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House * Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman *William Shakespeare's Hamlet *Sophocles' Oedipus Tyrannos *August Wilson's Fences *Tang Xianzu's The Peony Pavilion *And many more. Each entry provides a plot summary and assessment, with an emphasis on details about the play's creation, critical reception, and contribution to literary and theatrical history. Additional features include a chronology, a list of honorable mentions ("A Second Hundred"), and an index.