The classical No drama of Japan is the oldest living theatrical form in the world today and the fascination of its masks, the subtlety and symbolism of its performances, and the beauty of its poetry have long since brought it the recognition of the West. Little has been known about the early development of this form of drama.
This book gives a comprehensive account of No as it was five and six hundred years ago, when it was being given what was the form in which we know it today. The account is based on contemporary writings and shows No as it began to change from a truly popular form of drama to an entertainment. Plays, players, and performances are all de scribed as they existed in the 14 and 15 centuries in the most period in the history of NO.