Abstract: A cathode ray tube is disclosed which is relatively flat in the viewing direction, including a transparent envelope having at least one generally flat section, a screen arranged within the envelope, an electron gun for projecting an electron beam along a path substantially parallel to the plane of the screen, and first and second deflecting means for causing the beam to scan a line and a frame, respectively, characterized by the provision of a single conductive member of a given potential forming a beam directing electrode spaced from the screen and arranged such that the path of the electron beam lies between the electrode and the screen.