mystery play

American  

noun

1. a medieval dramatic form based on a Biblical story, usually dealing with the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

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mystery play British  

noun

1. (in the Middle Ages) a type of drama based on the life of Christ Compare miracle play

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Etymology

Origin of mystery play

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

But right on the money, somehow, is a medieval mystery play accompanied by a motley assembly of early-form lutes, flutes and bagpipes.

From Washington Post • Dec. 6, 2016

The town of Langley, on Whidbey Island, celebrates its centennial with a townwide, two-day interactive and improvisational mystery play.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 13, 2013

In its own way, it's a great medieval mystery play.

From The Guardian • Aug. 15, 2011

Though Stockhausen called it opera, “Licht” more closely resembles a medieval mystery play or the sacred festival drama of Wagner’s “Parsifal.”

From New York Times • May 6, 2011

In the mystery play the scene of this act is laid before Orleans.

From Joan of Arc by Gower, Ronald Sutherland