When first learning about a topic, use background sources like encyclopedias, handbooks, almanacs, etc. to get a clearer idea of what you're looking for.
Look to your assignment to see what types of sources your professor is asking you to use. If you're already comfortable with a topic, you may start looking for scholarly articles right away.
You can begin your research in any of these places. Remember different types of sources contain different kinds of information.
Reference works are all about the FACTS!
Encyclopedias, dictionaries, almanacs, etc., are useful for quickly identifying key facts or researching background information. You can find print and ebook versions by searching Worldcat@SU.
Your professors do not want you to cite Wikipedia in your papers, but it can be a good place to start finding background information on your topic. The video below (3:37 min.) can show you how to use Wikipedia to your benefit when starting scholarly research.
The following links provide insight into how often Wikipedia changes and Wikipedia's accuracy:
These multi-volume sets are in the library's Research Commons collection on the first floor.
Critical Survey of Drama by
Of the revised edition's 538 profiles of individual dramatists, 79 are completely new essays--mostly on playwrights who have recently come to be regarded as established figures in the theater. In addition to the entirely new author profiles, more than 88 profiles have been updated and revised to include the authors' new works and achievements, as well as developments in their personal lives. The bibliographies in these and all other author profiles have been updated and annotated. Besides listing new productions and publications and honors and awards, these essays provide analyses of significant new works.
Films on Demand is a streaming video platform with educational programs from Films Media Group, including many films about plays, drama, and theatre.
Doollee.com website guide covers modern playwrights, characters, literary agents, publishers and thousands of theatre plays which have been written, adopted or translated into English since 1956. -- website
