An in-depth exploration, through his plays and poems, of the philosophy of Shakespeare as a great poet, a great dramatist and a "great mind".* Written by a leading Shakespearean scholar* Discusses an array of topics, including sex and gender, politics and political theory, writing and acting, religious controversy and issues of faith, skepticism and misanthropy, and closure* Explores Shakespeare as a great poet, a great dramatist and a "great mind"

This clear and succinct book is designed for general readers who want to know how to go about reading Shakespeare's works for pleasure.
Encourages readers to approach Shakespeare's works aggressively, interactively, and questioningly
Focuses on six popular Shakespeare plays - "A Midsummer Night's Dream, Romeo and Juliet, Henry IV Part I, Hamlet, King Lear" and The "Tempest "
Recommends the best editions, recordings and DVDs / videos of these plays
Discusses the production of the plays on stage and screen
Introduces readers to different genres in Shakespeare - romantic comedy, English history, tragedy and romance
Avoids jargon and abstract literary theory

An in-depth exploration, through his plays and poems, of the philosophy of Shakespeare as a great poet, a great dramatist and a "great mind".* Written by a leading Shakespearean scholar* Discusses an array of topics, including sex and gender, politics and political theory, writing and acting, religious controversy and issues of faith, skepticism and misanthropy, and closure* Explores Shakespeare as a great poet, a great dramatist and a "great mind"

The extended second edition of this inspiring introduction to Shakespeare offers readers more insights into what makes Shakespeare great, and why we still read and perform his works.
A highly innovative introduction to the extraordinary phenomenon of Shakespeare
Explores Shakespeares works through the "Seven Ages of Man," from childhood to "second childishness and mere oblivion"
Now includes more material on fathers and sons, the perils of courtship, the circumstances of Shakespeares own life, the performance history of his plays on stage and on screen, and more
A new final chapter on "Shakespeare Today" looks at the remarkable diversity of interpretations in modern criticism and performance of Shakespeare
Discusses a wide range of plays and poems
Suitable for both non-specialist readers, and scholars seeking a fresh approach to the study of Shakespeare