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Shakespeare's Theory of Drama

Shakespeare's Theory of Drama

by PaulineKiernan (Author)

  • New

    Paperback 1998

    $37.34
Synopsis

Why did Shakespeare write drama? Did he have specific reasons for his choice of this art form? Did he have clearly defined aesthetic aims in what he wanted drama to do - and why? Pauline Kiernan opens up a new area of debate for Shakespearean criticism in showing that a radical, complex defence of drama which challenged the Renaissance orthodox view of poetry, history and art can be traced in Shakespeare's plays and poems. This study, first published in 1996, examines different stages in the canon to show that far from being restricted by the 'limitations' of drama, Shakespeare consciously exploits its capacity to accommodate temporality and change, and its reliance on the physical presence of the actor. This lively, readable book offers an original and scholarly insight into what Shakespeare wanted his drama to do and why.

$37.34

Quantity

10 in stock

More Information

Format: Paperback
 Pages: 230
 Edition: New Ed
 Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 23 Jul 1998
ISBN 10: 0521633583
ISBN 13: 9780521633581
Book Overview: 'This is a groundbreaking book, the kind it is hard to believe hasn't already been written.' Shakespeare Survey

Media Reviews
'This is a groundbreaking book, the kind it is hard to believe hasn't already been written. Kiernan identifies a curious reluctance on the part of critics to explore the possibility that Shakespeare might have developed a theory of drama ... this deceptively simple argument results in some stunning rereadings of both poems and plays.' Shakespeare Survey
'We have been told countless times that Shakespeare's plays were meant to be performed. Here then, apart from the 'magic of the theatre', is a reasoned and lucid explanation why the plays need and depend on performance ... Shakespeare's Theory of Drama is provocative, lucid, learned and carefully argued. It is an important book that deserves the attention of all students of Shakespeare, his plays, their performances, and their texts.' Modern Language Review
'Kiernan's argument in this well-structured book is that Shakespeare had a conscious and deliberate theory of drama, as distinct from poetry, and that in his poems and plays he set about a 'refutation of Renaissance aesthetics' ... Much is provocative. We are directed to thoughtful, detailed consideration of many germane passages, not all of them obvious.' The Use of English
'Kiernan is a lively reader and has a vigorous argumentative style.' Studies in English Literature
'This is a radical and original book which robustly contests the familiar image of the 'natural' poet with no central aesthetic purpose.' Year's Work in English Studies
' ... an intellectually stimulating book which will provoke a good deal of thought and controversy'. The Review of English Studies
Kiernan offers persuasive and illuminating argument... The Sixteenth Century Journal
Shakespeare's Theory of Drama offers provocative insights into the playwright's art and opens the way to further discussion of his aesthetic beliefs. Joan Lord Hall, English Language Notes
Pauline Kiernan loves the new Globe and the way it draws audiences closer to the stage, makes them uncomfortable enough ...that they won't drift off into some reverie, and...keeps reminding them that they are in a theater. Bibliotheque d'Humanisme et Renaissance
Shakespeare's Theory of Drama is important... Philip C. McGuire, Theatre Journal
This book manifests a very thorough knowledge of Shakespearean criticism as well as a willingness to challenge previously held beliefs regarding Shakespeare's plays. This is fine book for scholars and students interested in Shakespearean drama and theatre. Sixteenth Century Journal