How to Cite a Play in an Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

MLA style is the most common format for literature essays. Instead of page numbers, use act, scene, and line numbers separated by periods. If you mention the author in the sentence, only include the numbers in parentheses. Example: (Miller 1.2.45-48). If the play is a classic verse drama like those by Shakespeare, use the play title instead of the author name if you are citing multiple plays.

APA style is less common for drama but is used in some social science contexts. For APA, include the author, the original publication date, the date of the version you are using, and the page number. Example: (Ibsen, 1879/2010, p. 55).

When quoting more than three lines of dialogue, use a block quote. Start the quote on a new line, indented half an inch from the left margin. Write the character names in all capital letters followed by a period. Do not use quotation marks for block quotes. Place the parenthetical citation after the final punctuation mark.

Your Works Cited page must include the full publication details. The format generally follows: Author Last Name, First Name. Title of Play. Publisher, Year. If the play is part of an anthology, include the title of the anthology and the editor's name after the play title.

Avoid using page numbers for classic plays when line numbers are available. Line numbers allow readers to find the quote in any edition of the play. Also, ensure you distinguish between the playwright and the character speaking when introducing a quote in your prose.