The Making of Shakespeare's First Folio

In late November 1623, Edward Blount received the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays, which was published seven years after his death in 1616. This edition, generously illustrated in color, combines the recent discovery of a hitherto unknown edition of the First Folio with the human, artistic, economic, and technical stories of its birth.

Format: Hardback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Bodleian Library

In late November 1623, Edward Blount finally received the long-awaited book at his bookshop, located at the sign of the Black Bear near St. Paul's. The book, titled Master William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies, marked a significant milestone in the publishing world as it was the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays. It emerged seven years after the author's death in 1616, without any fanfare or marketing hype typically associated with important new publications. However, the significance of this moment cannot be overstated.

This new edition, lavishly illustrated in color with key pages from the publication and comparative works, combines the recent discovery of a hitherto unknown edition of the First Folio at Mount Stuart House on the Isle of Bute with the human, artistic, economic, and technical stories behind the birth of this landmark publication. It sheds light on the process that brought Shakespeare's plays to the public's attention and cemented his towering reputation as one of the greatest writers in history.

The arrival of Master William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies was a quiet affair, devoid of the marketing campaigns, reviews, interviews, endorsements, or literary prizes that characterize contemporary publishing. However, its impact was profound, shaping the literary landscape and influencing generations of readers and scholars. The book's illustrations, which showcase the vibrant colors and artistic details of the original publication, provide a visual feast for readers, while the accompanying text delves into the intricate details of the production, distribution, and reception of Shakespeare's plays.

The discovery of the First Folio at Mount Stuart House is a remarkable tale in itself. It was believed to have been lost for centuries until it was rediscovered in the late 20th century, hidden away in a storage room at the estate. The folio, which contains the first printed versions of many of Shakespeare's plays, is considered a treasure trove of literary history and has been the subject of extensive research and conservation efforts. The new edition of Master William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies incorporates the insights and discoveries made during this process, adding to our understanding of Shakespeare's works and their historical significance.

Furthermore, the birth of the First Folio marked a turning point in the cultural and commercial landscape of early modern England. Shakespeare's plays had already gained popularity during his lifetime. Still, the publication of the First Folio solidified his status as a literary icon and transformed him into a household name. The folio's lavish illustrations and elegant typography further enhanced his reputation, making his works more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. The book's distribution and sale also played a crucial role. It was widely distributed through bookshops and libraries, reaching a wide readership, including both aristocrats and commoners. Its popularity led to the establishment of print shops and publishers, further expanding the reach of Shakespeare's works.

In conclusion, the arrival of Master William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies in late November 1623 was a momentous occasion that marked a significant milestone in the publishing world. It was the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays, emerging seven years after his death without any fanfare or marketing hype. However, its significance. The new edition, lavishly illustrated and meticulously researched, combines the recent discovery of the First Folio with the human, artistic, economic, and technical stories behind its birth. It sheds light on the process that brought Shakespeare's plays to the public's attention and cemented his towering reputation as one of the greatest writers in history. The discovery of the First Folio at Mount Stuart House is a remarkable tale in itself, and the new edition incorporates the insights and discoveries made during this process. The birth of the First Folio marked a turning point in the cultural and commercial landscape of early modern England, expanding the reach of Shakespeare's works and transforming him into a literary icon. Its distribution and sale also played a crucial role.

Weight: 892g
Dimension: 245 x 343 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781851245987