A practical, accessible and thorough guide to identifying and using rhetorical devices in drama, using examples from both classical and contemporary plays. An unprecedented reference and handbook for actors, directors, playwrights and teachers; written by practitioners for practitioners.

Little has been written about how dramatists draw on rhetorical devices, and how a study of these can unlock a text for a performer or director, or indeed inspire contemporary playwrights. This book addresses in detail - yet in straightforward terms - the many different rhetorical forms used in drama, and enables the reader to identify and analyse them.

Dramatic Adventures in Rhetoric may be read cover to cover, or it may be dipped into; it is both an analytic tool and a reference aid for use in the classroom or rehearsal room, revealing how careful study of language is one of the best ways of accessing the richness of texts both classical and contemporary.

Giles Taylor is an actor who has appeared at the National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company and at numerous regional theatres, as well as on television. He is also a Shakespeare Consultant, working on productions across the country and running workshops for both actors and directors. Giles has a degree in Classics from Bristol University.

Philip Wilson is a director who has worked at theatres including Birmingham Rep, the Bush, Chichester Minerva, Liverpool Playhouse, Sheffield Crucible and the Traverse. He was the Artistic Director of Salisbury Playhouse (2007-11), and has adapted Philip Pullman's Grimm Tales and JL Carr's A Month in the Country.