A Companion to Shakespeare
This collection of 28 essays provides a historical overview of the conditions of Shakespeare's world. Little interpretation or criticism of Shakespeare's works is provided. Instead, each essay creates a portrait of one aspect of the theatrical, political, literary, intellectual, and social worlds that influenced the Bard and affected his writing. Topics include religion, political thought, reading practices, the craft of playwriting, the status of English, the economics and the repertory of the theater, licensing, censorship, and the business of printing. Extensive bibliographies follow each essay. Kastan (English and comparative literature, Columbia) is currently editing Henry IV, Part 1 for the Arden Shakespeare series. A solid addition to Shakespeare studies; recommended for academic collections and public libraries supporting strong high school literature programs.?Shana C. Fair, Ohio Univ., ZanesvilleCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.