24 pages • 48 minutes read
Wakefield MasterThe Second Shepherd's Play
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1500A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Second Shepherd’s Play is a medieval mystery play by the Wakefield Master that retells the story of the Nativity. Three shepherds, Col, Gib, and Dave, grumble about their hardships. A thief named Mak steals a sheep, disguising it as a baby, but the shepherds eventually discover the ruse. An angel then guides them to Bethlehem to witness the birth of Christ and offer gifts.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Second Shepherd's Play by Wakefield Master is praised for its humor and engaging depiction of medieval life, blending religious themes with everyday activities. Critics appreciate its lively characters and clever dialogue. However, the frequent use of regional dialects may pose a challenge for modern readers. Overall, the play is considered an entertaining and insightful medieval drama.
Who Should Read The Second Shepherd's Play?
A reader who enjoys medieval literature, historical plays, and religious themes would be captivated by The Second Shepherd's Play by Wakefield Master. Fans of The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer or Everyman will appreciate its blend of humor, social commentary, and moral lessons wrapped in a nativity narrative.