This edition offers a strongly theatrical perspective on the origins of Shakespeareâs First Part of King Henry IV and the history of its interpretation. The introduction clarifies the playâs surprising, de-centred dramatic structure, questioning the dominant assumption that the drama focuses on the education of Prince Hal. The notes provide a thorough commentary on Shakespeareâs transformation of his sources (particularly Holinshedâs Chronicles) and suggest alternative stagings. This updated edition contains a new introductory section by Katharine Craik, which describes recent stage, film
Klappentext
This updated edition offers a strongly theatrical perspective on the origins of Shakespeare's First Part of King Henry IV and the history of its interpretation. The introduction clarifies the play's surprising, de-centred dramatic structure, questioning the dominant assumption that the drama focuses on the education of Prince Hal. It calls attention to the effects of civil war upon a broad range of relationships. Falstaff's unpredictable vitality is explored, together with important contemporary values of honour, friendship, festivity and reformation. Extensive lexical glosses of obscure, ambiguous or archaic meanings make the rich wordplay accessible. The notes also provide a thorough commentary on Shakespeare's transformation of his sources (particularly Holinshed's Chronicles) and suggest alternative stagings. This updated edition contains a new introductory section by Katharine A. Craik, which describes recent stage, film and critical interpretations, and an updated reading list.
Biografie (William Shakespeare)
William Shakespeare (1564-1616) gilt als einer der größten Dichter und Dramatiker der Weltgeschichte. Er verfasste zahlreiche Dramen, Tragödien, Komödien und Gedichte, mit denen er schon zu Lebzeiten Anerkennung und Wohlstand errang. Aber erst in den folgenden Jahrhunderten wurde er zum Prototypen des literarischen Genies, ohne den die Entwicklung der neueren Literatur von Goethe über Brecht bis in die Gegenwart hinein undenkbar ist.