Comedies (The Norton Shakespeare, Based on the Oxford Edition) : Book Review

William Shakespeare's collection of Comedies is an extraordinary compilation that highlights the playwright's unparalleled wit, humor, and command of the comedic genre. This collection features some of his most beloved and iconic plays, including "Much Ado About Nothing," "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and "Twelfth Night," among others.

"Much Ado About Nothing" is a definite highlight of the collection. Set in a world of brilliant wordplay and mistaken identities, the play delves into the story of Beatrice and Benedick, two characters engaged in a war of words that obscures their true affection for one another. With its memorable characters and uproarious situations, this play exemplifies Shakespeare's comedic brilliance.

Another standout play in this collection is the enchanting romantic comedy, "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Taking place in a magical forest, the story weaves together the intertwined tales of fairies, lovers, and a group of amateur actors. With its captivating setting and whimsical characters, this play is an absolute delight to read and witness on stage.

"Twelfth Night," a delightful comedy, explores themes of love, mistaken identity, and the complexities of human emotions. The play follows Viola's journey, as she disguises herself as a man after surviving a shipwreck. As the plot unfolds, comical misunderstandings and romantic entanglements arise, leading to a heartwarming and unforgettable conclusion.

Shakespeare's Comedies effortlessly blend humor with deeper themes and commentary. Through witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and intricate plots, he offers a sharp critique of society and human nature, all while entertaining his audiences.

What are readers saying?

William Shakespeare's comedies have garnered a range of reviews from readers. Let's delve into a summary of the critiques for his collection of comedic works.

The majority of reviewers highly acclaim Shakespeare's comedies for their wit, humor, and captivating storylines. Readers appreciate the clever wordplay and the plays' ability to elicit laughter. They commend the playwright for his skill in crafting unforgettable characters and his mastery of comedic timing. Many specifically mention their enjoyment of plays like "Much Ado About Nothing," "Twelfth Night," and "A Midsummer Night's Dream" for their witty dialogue and humorous situations.

However, some reviewers find Shakespeare's comedies less appealing when compared to his tragedies or histories. They feel that the humor can be outdated or difficult to understand, leading to confusion and a lack of enjoyment. Some also mention that certain comedies lack depth and substance in their plots, making them less engaging compared to the author's other works.

There is a group of reviewers who have mixed feelings about Shakespeare's comedies. They appreciate the overall quality of his writing but find some of the humor forced or repetitive. While they acknowledge Shakespeare's brilliance in language and character development, they struggle to connect with the comedic elements of the plays on a personal level.

Furthermore, a few readers critique Shakespeare's portrayal of female characters in his comedies. They note that these characters often conform to traditional gender stereotypes or are treated unfairly. On the other hand, some readers appreciate the presence of strong, witty, and independent female characters in certain plays, highlighting their capacity to challenge societal norms of the time.

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