After studying at University College, Oxford William (Bill) Tydeman, (1935–2018) began his teaching career in the English Department at the University College of North Wales in Bangor. Ultimately rising to the position of Professor Emeritus, he remained at UCNW for just over 40 years and during this time, not only had the pleasure of publishing a great many books based on his scholarly interests which were wide ranging - from Medieval poetry, through Tudor plays to Wordsworth, Oscar Wilde and various Welsh authors - but also the privilege of being involved in various practical ways with a great many dramatic productions. As a result, most of the books that he wrote - especially those relating to theatre in the Middle Ages - were not just the result of conscientious academic study, but also of enthusiastic ‘hands on’ dramatic experiences.
Original Review of English Medieval Theatre 1400–1500: ‘Tydeman’s book will prove useful both to the literary historian and to the student of the history of dramatic production.’ Ronald J. Heckelman, Quidditas, Vol 8, Article 19 (1987). ‘The strength of the book is its lively sense of Medieval theatre and its potential.’ Martin Stevens, Albion: A Quarterly Journal Concerned with British Studies, Vol 19, No. 1 (1987).