Of all the plays in the Wakefield Cycle, none is more beloved—or more surprising—than The Second Shepherds’ Play . This medieval nativity play blends comedy, social commentary, and sacred storytelling in a way that still resonates today. At its heart, it’s a retelling of the shepherds’ journey to witness the birth of Christ—but with a twist: before the holy moment, there's a sheep-stealing prank, mistaken identities, and plenty of down-to-earth humor. This edition presents the original Middle English text alongside a modern English translation , making it easy for readers to appreciate both the historical beauty and the meaning behind the words. It's ideal for students, performers, or anyone curious about early English drama and religious literature. Please note: this play is also available as part of the collection “Everyman and Other Old Religious Plays In Plain and Simple English.”