Pericles: The Oxford Shakespeare : Book Review

"Pericles" is a captivating play penned by the renowned playwright William Shakespeare. It follows the enthralling journey of Pericles, Prince of Tyre, as he embarks on a series of adventures, encountering love, loss, and ultimately finding redemption. The play commences with Pericles fleeing his homeland to evade the anger of a vengeful king. Throughout his odyssey, Pericles faces numerous obstacles, including shipwrecks, assassination attempts, and the devastating loss of his wife and daughter. However, with unyielding determination and an unwavering belief in fate, Pericles eventually reunites with his loved ones, leading to a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion.

Shakespeare expertly weaves together elements of romance, tragedy, and comedy in "Pericles," creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers thoroughly engaged. The storyline is rife with unexpected twists and turns, leaving readers constantly guessing and eager to unravel the next chapter. Central to the play are the themes of love and family, which Shakespeare delves into with profound insight, using poignant dialogue and captivating interactions between characters to explore the depths of these complex emotions.

One of the most striking features of "Pericles" is the well-fleshed-out and memorable characters that populate its pages. From the noble and courageous Pericles to the resourceful and resilient Marina, each character contributes to the depth and complexity of the story. The interactions between the characters effortlessly oscillate between comedic and heartfelt, providing a harmonious blend of laughter and tears throughout the play.

Furthermore, Shakespeare's mastery of language and poetic prowess shines brightly in "Pericles." The play abounds with beautiful verses and powerful soliloquies, showcasing the playwright's unparalleled talent. Each word is meticulously crafted, adding layers of meaning and evoking profound emotion that resonates with readers.

In conclusion, "Pericles" is an enthralling tale that masterfully explores the themes of love, loss, and redemption. Shakespeare's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and eloquent language make this play a truly enchanting read. Whether you are a devoted Shakespeare enthusiast or simply appreciate a beautifully crafted narrative, "Pericles" is a must-read for any lover of literature. Its timeless allure and profound exploration of the human condition make it a play that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.

What are readers saying?

"Pericles" by William Shakespeare has garnered mixed reactions from readers. Some individuals laud the play for its intricate plot and complexity, while others criticize it as one of Shakespeare's weaker works.

One reviewer applauds Shakespeare's storytelling prowess and describes "Pericles" as an engaging and adventurous tale, filled with unexpected twists and turns. They appreciate the emotional depth of the characters and their development throughout the play. The reviewer also highlights the beautiful language and imagery employed by Shakespeare, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Another reader views "Pericles" as one of Shakespeare's most underrated plays. They admire the author's exploration of themes such as love, family, and the consequences of one's actions. The play's mysterious and intriguing qualities are also commended, captivating readers until the very end.

Nevertheless, not all opinions about "Pericles" are positive. Some readers find the play disjointed and confusing, struggling to follow the plot due to the abundance of characters and subplots. These elements hinder their full engagement with the story. Moreover, these readers express disappointment in the play's lack of depth and complexity, particularly when compared to Shakespeare's more prominent works.

Another reviewer shares this disappointment and considers "Pericles" one of Shakespeare's weakest plays. They argue that the characters lack development and emotional depth, making it challenging for readers to connect with them. The reviewer also notes that the plot feels rushed and unimaginative compared to Shakespeare's other masterpieces.

Pericles Shakespeare GreekTragedy