Searching for Juliet: The Lives and Deaths of Shakespeare's First Tragic Heroine

Searching for Juliet is a book that explores the legacy and reach of Shakespeare's Juliet Capulet, from her Renaissance origin stories to her modern interpretations. It is a powerful and inspiring exploration of sex and gender, youth and age, love and death.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Invigorating, engaging, and thrilling!


Samantha Ellis, GUARDIAN, exclaimed, "An astonishing tour-de-force!" Juliet has finally found the biographer who truly deserves her.


Marion Turner, another renowned critic, praised the book, stating, "A cultural, historical, and literary exploration of the birth, death, and legacy of the ultimate romantic heroine - Shakespeare's Juliet Capulet."


Juliet Capulet, the heartbeat of the world's most famous love story, is an enduring romantic icon. But she is so much more than that. She is a captivating, brilliant, passionate teenage girl who continues to be read and interpreted by each new generation with fresh eyes and hearts.


In her captivating book, "Searching for Juliet," Sophie Duncan takes us on a journey that spans from the Renaissance origins behind William Shakespeare's child bride to the boy actor who inspired her creation onstage. We explore the diverse tapestry of influences that shaped Juliet's character and story, from the enslaved people in the Caribbean to Italian fascists in Verona, and real-life lovers in Afghanistan.


This book is a rich cultural and historical exploration, drawing on a wide range of sources and new research. Duncan skillfully weaves together a narrative that is both deeply researched and wryly written, making us think again about a character and a story that we thought we knew.


Through her captivating storytelling, Duncan reveals the enduring legacy and reach of "Romeo and Juliet" far beyond the literary sphere. She explores the ways in which the story has been interpreted, adapted, and reimagined in various forms of media, from the Victorian stage to 1960s cinema, and beyond.


What makes "Searching for Juliet" truly remarkable is its ability to inspire and empower young Juliets of our own troubled times. Duncan's book offers a powerful message of hope, resilience, and the power of love to overcome even the most challenging circumstances.


With warmth, wit, and insight, Duncan shows us why Juliet is for now, for ever, and for everyone. Her book is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's masterpiece and a celebration of the young heroine who continues to captivate our hearts and minds.


In conclusion, "Searching for Juliet" is a must-read for anyone who loves Shakespeare, literature, history, or just a good story. It is a captivating, inspiring, and provocative exploration of sex, gender, youth, age, love, and death. Duncan's book offers a fresh perspective on a timeless classic, reminding us of the enduring power of love and the importance of embracing our own unique identities.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529365177