‘A brilliant book with absolutely everything you’d want to know about all of Shakespeare’s plays, from someone who really knows their stuff.’ – Matthew Nichols, Manchester Grammar School, UK.

Are you curious about why Shakespeare’s plays remain so popular four centuries since they were written? Could you use a companion to plays you’ll be studying or seeing? This guide will accelerate your comprehension, sharpen your insight, expand your vision and improve your experience of Shakespeare’s dramatic works.

Understanding Shakespeare’s Plays is an easy-to-use reference that gives you a way into every play in the canon through a combination of enriching information, eye-opening analysis and frank discussion. You’ll be introduced to each play’s history and use of sources, gain an overview of the dramatic action and offered an exploration of key moments and choices that define the work.

Whereas other guidebooks present the plays neutrally, or only comment on a small selection of favourites, this one provides an accessible introduction to every single play and acknowledges that not all of them are perfect gems. Understanding Shakespeare Plays is unique – and uniquely helpful – in offering not only a sophisticated understanding of each play but also a candid review of its accomplishments and challenges, enabling you to make informed decisions about what to read or see and what to look for when you do.

This is the book to get if you want to get Shakespeare. P 2026 Bloomsbury Publishing PLC C 2026 Kent Lehnhof