Starting Shakespeare

A guide to studying Shakespeare. It enables students to make a 'start' on Shakespeare's plays; to read the plays for themselves and to develop ideas for discussion. It introduces the key elements of Shakespeare studies, including historical context, theatrical awareness, characters and plots, settings, genres, language and editions.

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Where do we start when studying Shakespeare? With the man himself? Or with historical context? With language? Or plot? Starting Shakespeare is a lively, approachable guide to studying Shakespeare, that enables students to make a 'start' on Shakespeare's plays; to read the plays for themselves and to develop ideas for discussion. It provides a clear, informative introduction to the key elements of Shakespeare studies, including historical context, theatrical awareness, characters and plots, settings, genres, language and editions. Each chapter is a potential 'starting point' in its own right, with extensive cross-references providing links between sections. Each chapter uses a range of plays to illustrate the points made, drawn from a wide range of genres and both early and late texts but with a focus on the plays most often studied. Chapters end with a brief summary and suggestions for wider reading, including guidance on key critical works and approaches. Starting Shakespeare is an ideal introduction to studying Shakespeare and his works. It provides a clear starting point and a thought-provoking guide to further study.