William Shakespeare: A Brief Life

Shakespeare's life is examined in this biography, revealing his early departure, late return, public success, and private loss. It explores the contrast between his humble beginnings and lofty achievements, suggesting that genius can blossom anywhere. The book also explores the mysteries of Shakespeare's life, such as why he left Stratford, who he ran with in London, and why he put down his pen.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

William Shakespeare, the legendary English playwright, has captivated the hearts and minds of scholars and enthusiasts alike for centuries. This captivating and fresh biography delves into the enigmatic life of Shakespeare, examining how his life seamlessly transforms into myth, captivating even the most skeptical of scholars. The narrative begins with a thoughtful exploration of Shakespeare's early departure from his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, his late return, and the remarkable juxtaposition of public success and private loss. It sheds light on the twilight of plays that revolve around family reunions, the poignant death of Shakespeare at his home in the grandest house in town, a place he had often passed as a schoolboy, filled with envy and perhaps even ambition. Shakespeare's life was characterized by a unique orbit, where everything seemed to come full circle. Even in his final moments, he astutely chose to die on his birthday, adding an extra layer of drama to his legendary tale.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Shakespeare myth is the contrast between his humble beginnings and his towering achievements. This narrative persuades us that genius can flourish in any environment, transcending social and economic boundaries. William Shakespeare: A Brief Life pays homage to these myths while also delving into some of the mysteries surrounding Shakespeare's life. It explores the reasons behind his departure from Stratford, the companions he kept in London, and the circumstances that led to his temporary retirement from writing. The book ultimately explores the profound contrast between Shakespeare's mere fifty-two years of life and the enduring afterlives of his work and his story, which show no signs of fading away.

In conclusion, William Shakespeare: A Brief Life offers a captivating and insightful exploration of the life and legacy of one of the greatest writers in history. It sheds light on the myths and mysteries that have surrounded Shakespeare, while also delving into the profound contrast between his humble beginnings and his towering achievements. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespeare, literature, or the enduring power of great storytelling.

Weight: 307g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350156753