Sylvan Barnet's "Eight Great Comedies" is a comprehensive collection that brings together some of the most brilliant and beloved comedic plays ever written. This anthology is a treasure trove of timeless comedies that transcend both time and cultural boundaries, making it a must-have for theater enthusiasts and readers alike. With plays ranging from the witty dialogue of William Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" to the satirical masterpiece of Molière's "Tartuffe," each work is accompanied by insightful commentary and analysis, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the genre.
What sets this anthology apart is Barnet's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to capture the essence of each play. His analysis delves into the comedic devices, themes, and characterizations employed by the playwrights, shedding light on their unique artistic visions. Furthermore, the inclusion of historical and cultural context introduces each play, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of comedy.
One of the standout features of this collection is the inclusion of helpful footnotes that define and explain obscure terms or references, ensuring that readers can fully engage with the text. Barnet's extensive knowledge and passion for the subject shine through in his writing, making this anthology not only educational but also a delight to read.
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"Eight Great Comedies" showcases works from renowned playwrights such as Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and David Mamet, demonstrating the diversity and enduring appeal of comedy. These plays have stood the test of time and continue to entertain and delight audiences today.
Overall, Sylvan Barnet's "Eight Great Comedies" is a brilliantly curated collection that celebrates the power and enduring appeal of comedy. With its insightful commentary, historical context, and engaging analysis, this anthology is sure to captivate both theater aficionados and readers looking for an entertaining and well-rounded selection of plays. Whether you're a student, a theater lover, or simply someone who enjoys a good laugh, this book is a worthwhile addition to your library.
What are readers saying?
Sylvan Barnet's book, "Eight Great Comedies," has garnered a mix of reviews. Overall, readers appreciate the book for its collection of comedic plays, in-depth analysis, and useful annotations. However, some readers find the explanations overly complex and lacking clarity.
Many reviewers commend Barnet for thoughtfully selecting the eight comedies featured in the book. They appreciate the assortment of plays from various time periods and playwrights, which offers a wide range of comedic styles. In particular, the inclusion of well-known works like Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing" and Molière's "Tartuffe" is highly valued by readers.
Barnet's analysis is often deemed insightful and informative. Readers appreciate the depth of his literary analysis, which enhances their understanding of the plays. His interpretations provide valuable context and emphasize important themes and motifs within each comedy.
The annotations in the book are seen as useful additions by many readers. These annotations clarify difficult or outdated language, provide historical context, and explain references that may be unfamiliar. Reviewers note that these annotations enhance the reading experience, especially for those who are not well-versed in the specific time periods or cultural references.
However, some readers find Barnet's explanations too complex and convoluted. They feel that the language and concepts used in the analysis could have been more clearly and concisely presented. These readers express frustration with the need to continuously refer back to the annotations, which occasionally disrupts the flow of reading and comprehension.
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