Shakespeare's Workplace: Essays on Shakespearean Theatre

Shakespeare was an inventive writer who enriched the English language with his plays. This book provides analytical essays on the marginalia of Shakespeare's plays, revealing fresh details about the input of playing companies, playhouses, individual players, and the Revels Office. It also examines Shakespeare's choice between playwriting and poetry, the requirements of working in a playhouse, and its impact on the creation of characters such as Henry V, Shylock, Isabella, King Lear, and Coriolanus.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Shakespeare, the unparalleled master of the English language, left an indelible mark on the world of literature with his unparalleled creativity. His plays, brimming with intricate vocabulary and masterful usage, have enriched our understanding and appreciation of the English language to an immeasurable extent. In this captivating book, we embark on a journey through a series of analytical essays that delve into the marginalia surrounding Shakespeare's plays. Each essay is a meticulously researched and authoritative exploration, packed with rich details that shed light on the peculiar conditions under which Shakespeare and his peers crafted their remarkable playbooks. Among these essays, we encounter two groundbreaking contributions that unveil fresh insights into the world of Shakespeare. Together, they provide a profound understanding of the intricate tapestry that comprises the Shakespearean universe.

In his examination, Gurr delves into Shakespeare's own choice between playwriting and poetry, exploring the unique challenges and opportunities that arose. He sheds light on the dynamic nature of working in a playhouse, where the stage becomes the central focus, and how it shaped the creation of iconic characters such as Henry V, Shylock, Isabella, King Lear, and Coriolanus. Through his meticulous analysis, Gurr unveils the profound impact that the playhouse environment had on Shakespeare's artistic vision.

This book is a treasure trove for Shakespeare enthusiasts, literary scholars, and anyone who seeks to unravel the secrets of this legendary playwright. It offers a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's creative process, the influences that shaped his works, and the intricate interplay between his plays and the broader language he employed. As we delve into the marginalia and explore the rich tapestry of Shakespeare's world, we are transported back in time to witness the birth of a literary masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

ISBN-13: 9781316618271