by Sir Frank Kermode (Author)
Shakespeare made his unique contribution to British and world culture in the midst of Elizabeth's great reign. Here, the circumstances of each play's composition are acutely described, and set within a masterful portrait of Shakespeare's England - its early capitalism, its court, its bursting population, and its epidemics, as well as its arts - including, of course, its theatre. An important, lasting, and concise companion to Shakespeare's time.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 208
Publisher: Orion
Published: 24 Jun 2004
ISBN 10: 029784881X
ISBN 13: 9780297848813
Book Overview: Shakespeare is one of the greatest Britons, arguably the greatest writer ever, known to everyone and enduringly popular. When Frank Kermode writes about Shakespeare brilliant reviews follow. His most recent book received the highest praise from leading literary figures: 'The best book on Shakespeare that I have ever read' (Melvyn Bragg) and 'Bearing the happy mark of Professor Kermode's accessible style' (Muriel Spark), 'I can think of no better guide' (Richard Eyre), 'A magnificent book ... what a pleasure it is to read' (James Wood), 'An inspiring work' (Tom Paulin), 'Blazing with insight and erudition' (Elizabeth Buchan), 'It made me wish I had sat at the feet of its author' (Joan Bakewell) A new book (rather than articles) from Frank Kermode is very rare. This is the crowning glory of his brilliant career and a lifelong love of Shakespeare.