King Lear: Arden Performance Editions

King Lear divides his kingdom amongst his children, but soon finds himself stripped of all the trappings of state, wealth, and power. Arden Performance Editions are ideal for actors and students, with clear facing-page notes, easily accessible information, and a short introduction to the play.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

King Lear, a wise and seasoned ruler, had reigned over his kingdom for countless years. However, as the ravages of time took their toll on his body, he decided to divide his vast empire among his children, hoping to secure its future. Blinded by his own arrogance and misplaced trust, Lear failed to discern the true nature of his offspring's loyalty. Consequently, he watched helplessly as his once-grand dominion crumbled before his eyes, stripped away of all the trappings of state, wealth, and power that had once defined him.

In this tragic tale, Shakespeare explores the depths of human nature, delving into the consequences of arrogance, misjudgment, and the erosion of power. King Lear's descent into madness serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of human existence and the importance of humility and self-awareness. The play's exploration of familial relationships, particularly the strained bond between Lear and his daughter Cordelia, adds depth and complexity to the narrative, highlighting the destructive nature of jealousy and the consequences of neglecting the needs of loved ones.

Arden Performance Editions are invaluable resources for anyone embarking on the journey of performing Shakespeare's plays. These editions are meticulously crafted to provide actors and students with a comprehensive understanding of the text. With clear facing-page notes offering concise definitions of words, easily accessible information about key textual variants, lineation, metrical ambiguities, and pronunciation, each edition facilitates a deeper exploration of the play's possibilities and meanings.

Designed with practicality in mind, each edition offers ample space for personal annotations, allowing actors and students to annotate their performances and engage with the text on a personal level. The well-spaced text ensures a seamless reading experience, making it easy to navigate and comprehend the intricate language of Shakespeare.

Furthermore, each edition includes a short introduction to the play, providing valuable context and background information to enhance the understanding and interpretation of the text. This introduction serves as a guide for actors and students, helping them to navigate the complexities of the play and bring its characters to life on stage.

In conclusion, Arden Performance Editions are essential tools for anyone seeking to engage with Shakespeare's plays in performance. These editions provide actors and students with comprehensive information, practical resources, and a deeper understanding of the text, enabling them to bring the characters and themes of Shakespeare's plays to life on stage with grace and depth.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350243620