Cliffs Notes on Shakespeare's Richard II (Cliffs Notes) : Book Review

Denis M. Calandra's "Cliffs Notes on Shakespeare's Richard II" offers a comprehensive and insightful summary of William Shakespeare's renowned play. This book is an excellent resource for students, scholars, and anyone eager to delve into the complexities of this historical tragedy.

Calandra takes a detailed look at the play's main character, King Richard II, and his journey throughout the story. By examining Richard's character development, the book explores themes of power, leadership, and the consequences of a ruler's actions. Furthermore, the author delves into the supporting characters, such as Bolingbroke and the Duke of York, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of their significance within the narrative.

One of the strengths of this book is its ability to unravel the intricate plot of Richard II. Calandra provides a clear and concise summary of each act, allowing readers to easily follow the sequence of events and grasp the overall story arc. Additionally, the author delves into the political and historical context of the play, giving readers a broader appreciation of its significance in Shakespeare's body of work.

Calandra's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book both enjoyable and educational. The author combines insightful analysis with the plot summary, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's intentions and the underlying meanings of the play.

Overall, "Cliffs Notes on Shakespeare's Richard II" by Denis M. Calandra is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to explore and appreciate this timeless Shakespearean tragedy. With its comprehensive summaries, analysis of characters and themes, and clear presentation of the plot, this book is a must-read for Shakespeare enthusiasts and students alike. It provides a thorough examination of Richard II, shedding light on its profound themes and offering readers a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's artistry.

What are readers saying?

Denis M. Calandra's book, "Cliffs Notes on Shakespeare's Richard II," has received a range of reviews from readers. Some reviewers expressed disappointment, giving the book a rating of 2 stars out of 5. They felt that the analysis provided by Calandra was lacking in depth and did not offer any fresh insights into Shakespeare's play. Instead, they found that the book served more as a summary rather than a comprehensive guide to understanding Richard II.

Another reviewer, rating the book 3 out of 5 stars, described it as a helpful resource for those seeking a quick overview of Richard II. They appreciated its concise nature and found the plot summaries to be clear and accurate. However, the reviewer felt that the book fell short in providing in-depth character analysis, limiting its usefulness for a deeper understanding of the play.

On a more positive note, a reviewer gave the book 4 stars out of 5, highlighting its effectiveness as a quick reference guide. They found the book easy to follow and appreciated the inclusion of key quotes and explanations. The summaries of each character's arc were particularly helpful in gaining a better understanding of the story.

Another reviewer, also rating the book 3 out of 5 stars, noted that while it served as a decent introductory guide, it lacked the necessary depth of analysis to fully grasp the complexities of Richard II. They recommended it for students looking for a basic overview, but suggested exploring other resources for a more nuanced understanding.

A 5-star review praised the book for its accessibility and clarity. The reader found it to be a valuable tool for comprehending the complex language and themes of Shakespeare's play. They believed that Calandra's explanations and insights added depth to their understanding and provided a solid foundation for further exploration of Richard II.

Shakespeare RichardII BookSummary