The Greenwood Companion To Shakespeare: A Comprehensive Guide for Students (Vol. 1)

About the Book

Designed and written for students, this 4-volume set introduces the genres and major works that constitute Shakespeare's formidable canon. Whether readers are beginning with one of the tragedies, a history play, a comedy, or the poems, they will find a full volume devoted to each genre, with thorough analysis of the major works within. Each analytical essay is written with expertise and insight to guide the reader through the poem or play and to foster the full appreciation of both the content and context of the work. Full discussion is given to plot synopsis, character and thematic development, and historical context. In addition, the key passages, which are often the most pivotal yet challenging for readers, are explicated with detailed discussions. The organizational approach of this resource will help readers fully appreciate not only relationships between characters within plays but also between plays. Teachers will value this approach in encouraging students to compare and contrast and develop critical thinking. Additional resources are given for research and classroom assignments, and the first volume includes overview essays on major topics related to Shakespeare and his world: the Elizabethan age, his life, the theater of the era, his texts, and his language.