Love Labour's Lost

Loves Labours Lost (1596) is a comedy by William Shakespeare written for Queen Elizabeth. It has been recognized for its length and complex wordplay and has seen a resurgence over the last century. Shakespeare's wit and wordplay are his greatest strengths, but he is also able to portray complex human emotions, how these emotions contribute to relationships, and how these relationships interact with politics, culture, and religion. This edition of the play is a classic of English literature reimagined for modern readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

Loves Labours Lost, a comedic masterpiece penned by the legendary William Shakespeare in 1596, was meticulously crafted to be presented before Queen Elizabeth at the Inns of Court. This play has garnered widespread acclaim for its remarkable length and intricate wordplay, showcasing Shakespeare's unparalleled literary prowess. Despite its relatively limited staging until the nineteenth century, Loves Labours Lost has experienced a remarkable resurgence in recent times, serving as a rich source of inspiration for musicals, films, and television shows.

In the opening lines of the play, Shakespeare delves into the concept of beauty, emphasizing that it is not determined solely by the shallow judgments of the eye but rather by the discerning judgment of the mind. He challenges the notion that beauty can be acquired through the baseless praise of chapmen's tongues, instead asserting that true beauty arises from within, shaped by one's intellect and character. Shakespeare's profound insight into the human psyche and his ability to portray complex emotions are truly remarkable.

Where Shakespeare truly excels is in his ability to delve into the intricate dynamics of human relationships, exploring how emotions shape and influence these connections. He intricately weaves together the themes of love, friendship, loyalty, and politics, creating a tapestry of characters that are relatable, flawed, and utterly human. In the play, King Ferdinand of Navarre takes an oath with his closest friends and advisors, vowing to abstain from dietary excess and intellectual pursuits for three years. This self-imposed isolation is intended to foster self-improvement and strengthen their bonds of camaraderie.

However, when the Princess of France arrives with her ladies on important business, she finds herself barred from court due to the strict order imposed by the King. Despite the physical distance, the King and his men find themselves captivated by the French women, each falling in love with them in their own unique way. However, they are hesitant to admit their feelings without implicating their comrades, creating a web of deceit and confusion.

Through this comedic exploration of love and friendship, Shakespeare offers a poignant commentary on the complexities of human nature and the power of emotions. He challenges societal norms and expectations, highlighting the foolishness of pursuing superficial beauty and the importance of genuine connections and self-discovery. Loves Labours Lost is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, offering a profound exploration of the human experience and the complexities of interpersonal relationships.

This edition of William Shakespeare's Loves Labours Lost is a true testament to the enduring legacy of his work. With its beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, it presents the play in a modern and accessible format, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. The meticulous attention to detail and the preservation of Shakespeare's original language and syntax ensure that the essence of his masterpiece is preserved for generations to come.

In conclusion, Loves Labours Lost, a comedic masterpiece penned by William Shakespeare in 1596, is a testament to his unparalleled literary prowess. The play's exploration of beauty, love, friendship, loyalty, and politics, coupled with its intricate wordplay and profound insights into the human psyche, has made it a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. This edition of the play, with its beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, ensures that Shakespeare's legacy is preserved and accessible to a new generation of readers.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513136899