For over a century David Belasco's MADAME BUTTERFLY has been known only in its one-act version. The three-act Butterfly, which was Belasco's original draft, is far richer in its character development, far deeper in its depiction of the clash of two civilizations and far clearer in the prices that must be paid when such an event occurs.

This "Lost Butterfly" will answer questions left unanswered in the short play. It delves deeply into the conflicted souls of the three primary characters. The "Lost Butterfly" breathes fresh life and great meaning into the Butterfly saga.

In addition, readers can now enjoy a full-length modern rendering of Belasco's three-act play as well as his original draft captured on microfiche; both are found in Appendices A and B of this fascinating volume.