The Beggar's Opera
Its Predecessors and Successors

Originally published in 1922, this book contains a history of English opera described through the lens of The Beggar's Opera, first performed in 1728. Kidson details the background to the opera's creation, its author, and its lasting impact on the English opera scene. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the English opera and English musical history.

Introduction; 1. Opera in England prior to The Beggar's Opera; 2. The Gentle Shepherd: the first ballad opera; 3. The Beggar's Opera: its conception; 4. John Gay; 5. The plot and characters of The Beggar's Opera; 6. The music of The Beggar's Opera and its sources; 7. Polly: the sequel to The Beggar's Opera; 8. The publication of The Beggar's Opera; 9. Production and criticism; 10. Later ballad operas; Index.