Momus Triumphans: or, the Plagiaries of the English Stage (1688[1687])

"Momus Triumphans: or, the Plagiaries of the English Stage" by Gerard Langbaine is a bibliographical catalogue written in the late 17th century. This work serves as one of the most comprehensive listings of English theatrical productions up to its time, detailing the plays, their genres, and their authors, while also addressing the theme of literary plagiarism. The text positions itself as a resource for scholars, writers, and theatre enthusiasts interested in the development of English drama. The opening of the work introduces Langbaine's purpose for creating the catalogue, emphasizing the need for an updated and methodically organized resource in response to previous catalogues that were riddled with errors and inaccuracies. He states his extensive familiarity with dramatic works, having collected a considerable number of plays. Furthermore, he critiques the issue of plagiarism in the theatre, arguing that modern writers often borrow from their predecessors without due credit, citing specific examples to illustrate the extent of this literary crime. Langbaine's observations set the stage for a detailed exploration of English plays while championing the integrity of original authorship throughout his catalogue.