The White Devil gives us a compellingly dangerous and fascinating woman who consents to the murder of her ineffectual husband. Her defence against the charge of adultery transforms a lurid tale of crime into high tragedy. Webster's play is a vivid study of sexual and political intrigue, written in incomparable verse and prose.

John Russell Brown's new introduction uses the latest developments in the study of Jacobean England and in theatre criticism. Detailed notes and glosses make this an ideal teaching text and a 'must' for any theatre goer.