Mighty Casey

This entertaining but scholarly book is a study of the historical and literary record of Casey at the Bat. Eugene Murdock begins with the poem's 1888 publication and theatrical debut. He considers the lively debates over authorship, rivalry among players calling themselves Casey, and communities claiming to be Mudville. He then details the poem's literary impact. Murdock includes some seventy Casey poems by other writers, organizing them by subject: the pitcher who struck Casey out, Casey's redemption, parodies, an opera, and more. In conclusion, Murdock reviews the entire subject and comments on Casey's role in history and folklore.