mystery play

noun

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

mystery play

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of mystery play¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

It was treated solemnly, dreamily, phlegmatically, as a sort of cross between Maeterlinck and a 'mystery play.'

From Project Gutenberg

Davie responded that it was like a pasteboard town in a mystery play, and that he longed to strike at it with his good broadsword.

From Project Gutenberg

The Spaniards also developed a new form of the mystery play,—the autos sacramentales.

From Project Gutenberg

A most ingenious mystery play worked out, however, in terms of modern theatrical realism.

From Project Gutenberg

This crowd had been waiting since daybreak for three things: noonday, the embassy from Flanders, the mystery play.

From Project Gutenberg