This volume covers the period that saw the establishment in France of a centralized official theater--not only the Comédie-Française, but an Italian theater and a state Opera; the often subversive independent theaters are also discussed. Nearly 1000 documents are, for the most part, newly translated and many are published for the first time. Over 120 pictorial documents provide a visual dimension where relevant. A copious bibliography helps to make this an important reference work and a valuable research tool.