The two plays in this volume, both published here for the first time, offer stark contrasts in style, content and purpose of Anabaptist theatrics. The first concerns Conrad Grebel and is moderately speculative yet faithfully historical; the second concerns Jan van Leiden and its writer took as much literary licence as he wanted. The Grebel monologue has depth of conviction, exhibiting a sincere struggle with what course he might take, given his obstacles and options. The Jan van Leiden play is a story that has largely evolved as myth that unfolds before multitudes, drawing in historical and fictional characters alike.

Both Conrad Grebel and Jan van Leiden became legends, but interpretations of their motives and actions have stirred debate until the present day. While those who wish to denigrate the Anabaptist movement relish the example of Jan van Leiden at M