Four Great Comedies: The Taming of the Shrew / A Midsummer Night's Dream / Twelfth Night / The Tempest : Book Review

"Four Great Comedies" by William Shakespeare brings together four of the Bard's most celebrated comedic plays: "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Twelfth Night," "As You Like It," and "Much Ado About Nothing." These plays highlight Shakespeare's genius in crafting witty dialogue, entertaining situations, and captivating characters that have charmed audiences for centuries.

In "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Shakespeare skillfully intertwines the stories of four young lovers and mischievous fairies. The play explores themes of love, jealousy, and the transformative power of magic, resulting in a whimsical comedy that seamlessly blends the human and supernatural worlds.

"Twelfth Night" presents a tale of mistaken identity and romantic entanglements. The protagonist, Viola, disguises herself as a man, leading to a web of love triangles and confusion. With its clever wordplay, amusing characters, and memorable moments of wit, this play has become one of Shakespeare's most beloved comedies.

"As You Like It" takes us to the Forest of Arden, where a diverse group of characters seeks solace and discovers love and self-discovery along the way. Through its exploration of themes such as love, nature, and gender roles, this comedy leaves a lasting impression, showcasing Shakespeare's ability to create a world that entertains and provokes thought.

Lastly, "Much Ado About Nothing" delights readers with its blend of comedic banter and bittersweet romance. The play follows the story of Beatrice and Benedick, two clever and stubborn characters whose love-hate relationship provides plenty of laughs. Touching on themes of deceit, mistaken identity, and the complexities of love, this play exemplifies Shakespeare's talent for crafting intricate and entertaining plotlines.

What are readers saying?

Four Great Comedies by William Shakespeare is a popular collection of some of his most renowned comedic plays: Much Ado About Nothing, Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and The Tempest. This anthology has garnered widespread acclaim for Shakespeare's cleverness, humor, and storytelling prowess.

One of the aspects that readers particularly appreciate is Shakespeare's ability to craft intricate plots and create memorable characters within these comedies. The banter and witty wordplay between the characters captivate readers throughout the plays. The sharp dialogue and comedic timing are frequently highlighted as standout features, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the reading experience.

Moreover, Shakespeare's exploration of love and romance in these comedies resonates with readers. The portrayal of complex relationships, often intertwined with mistaken identities and miscommunication, proves both entertaining and relatable. These elements reflect the challenges and uncertainties found in real-life love, adding depth to the stories.

Furthermore, readers appreciate Shakespeare's talent in bringing forth vivid and memorable characters. Whether it is the quick-witted Beatrice and Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing or the mischievous Puck in A Midsummer Night's Dream, each character possesses a unique personality that enhances the narratives. Witnessing their personal growth throughout the plays allows readers to establish a stronger connection with these individuals.

The timelessness of Shakespeare's writing is another aspect that garners frequent praise. Despite being written centuries ago, the themes and messages explored in these comedies remain relevant today. Readers find themselves able to connect with the stories and discover universal truths within Shakespeare's words, providing a deeper resonance.

ClassicComedies ShakespeareanHumor MustReadPlays