Now in its third edition The Basics is an insightful and informative introduction to the work of William Shakespeare. Exploring all aspects of Shakespeare s plays including the language, cultural contexts, and modern interpretations, this text looks at how a range of plays from across the genres have been understood. Updates in this edition
Ecocritical, queer, presentist and gendered discussions of Shakespeare s work
Studies of new performances including Tennant and Tate s Much Ado About Nothing
Critical discussions of race and politics in Othello and King Lear
Case studies of modern film versions of Shakespeare s works
A chronology of Shakespeare s work and contemporary events
With fully updated further reading throughout and a wide range of case studies and examples, this text is essential reading for all those studying Shakespeare s work.
A nicely written intro that is pretty in-depth. Therefore, I would not read this as a first book on Shakespeare, but definitely a good idea if you want a second book on him. It engages with texts and how to read them.