A Mystery Play in Honour of the Nativity of Our Lord

Robert Hugh Benson's A Mystery Play in Honour of the Nativity of Our Lord is a reverent Christmas drama shaped for simple, practical performance and devoted to the sacred wonder of the Nativity. Opening with carol, prophecy, and a solemn herald's call, it leads the audience from the snowy roads outside Bethlehem to crowded inns, quiet hills, and the holy stable itself. Along the way, humble children, weary travelers, skeptical merchants, watchful shepherds, and puzzled innkeepers all encounter signs that something divine is drawing near. At the heart of the play is a contrast between disbelief and innocence, ordinary labor and miraculous grace. The kindness of Martha and Abel, the prophetic weariness of Zachary, and the growing unease of Bethlehem's residents all give way to angelic music, heavenly vision, and the kneeling of Mary and Joseph before the manger. The drama culminates in worship: the shepherds adore the Child, the angels proclaim peace, and the Epiphany expands the vision as the Three Kings arrive under the star with gold, frankincense, and myrrh, honoring Christ as king, God, and sacrifice. This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design.