The Nick Hern Books RSC Classics - a series of rarely performed plays from the 16th and 17th centuries, published alongside their resurrection by the RSC in Stratford-upon-Avon and the West End.

Resonating with echoes of Measure for Measure and Hamlet, John Marston's tragicomedy The Malcontent is a fabulous study of courtly intrigue, betrayal and jealousy.

The true Duke of Genoa has lost his throne to the usurper, Pietro. The Duke returns to court in disguise to expose the corruption and regain his rightful office.

This edition of the play is edited with an introduction by Peter Thomson and preface by Gregory Doran.

The plays in the RSC Classics series reflect the diversity of styles, themes and subjects of the Elizabethan and Jacobean stage, and include a 'new' addition to the Shakespeare canon.