Theatrical characters’ dual existence on stage and in text presents a unique, challenging case for the analytical philosopher.

Analytic Philosophy and the World of the Play re-examines the ontological status of theatre and its fictional objects through the possible worlds thesis, arguing that theatre is not a mirror of our world, but a re-creation of it. Taking a fresh look at theatre’s key elements, including the hotly contested relationships between character and actor; onstage and offstage worlds ; and the play-text and performance, Michael Y. Bennett presents a radical new way of understanding the world of the play.