A Short View of the Immorality, and Profaneness of the English Stage Together with the Sense of Antiquity on this Argument

"A Short View of the Immorality, and Profaneness of the English Stage" by Jeremy Collier is a scorching critique that exposes the dark underbelly of late 17th-century English theatre, accusing it of poisoning society's moral core. This book argues that the stage, far from being a harmless diversion, is a breeding ground for vice, where playwrights deliberately use scandalous themes and language to corrupt audiences and erode virtue. With sharp analysis and pointed examples, the author contrasts the perceived decency of classical works with the lewdness of contemporary plays, suggesting that this vulgarity isn't just offensive but actively harmful, twisting the audience's understanding of what's right and wrong. Collier essentially paints a picture of the English stage as a major culprit in the decline of public morality and religious values.