Richard Farmer, Master of Emmanuel College Cambridge: A Forgotten Shakespearean : Book Review

"Richard Farmer: Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge," written by Arthur Sherbo, provides a detailed biography of Richard Farmer, an influential and noteworthy figure in the history of Emmanuel College, Cambridge. Sherbo's comprehensive account sheds light on Farmer's life and accomplishments, offering valuable insights into his contributions to the intellectual and cultural development of the institution.

The book covers Farmer's early years and education, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to his appointment as Master. Sherbo skillfully presents Farmer's rise within the academic community, highlighting his dedication to education and his efforts to transform Emmanuel College into a renowned center of learning.

Sherbo also delves into Farmer's scholarly pursuits, particularly his impact on literary criticism and involvement in Shakespearean scholarship. Through extensive research, the author provides fascinating insights into Farmer's endeavors to establish himself as a leading authority in his field, showcasing his unwavering dedication to advancing the study of English literature.

A notable strength of the book is Sherbo's ability to place Farmer's achievements within the broader historical and intellectual context of his time. By examining the social, political, and cultural climate of the era, Sherbo offers readers a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that Farmer encountered as the master of a college during a period of significant change.

Overall, "Richard Farmer: Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge" is a captivating and enlightening biography that presents a well-rounded portrait of Richard Farmer. Arthur Sherbo's meticulous research and thoughtful analysis make this book an invaluable resource for those interested in the history of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, and the wider field of higher education in early modern England.

What are readers saying?

"Richard Farmer: Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge" by Arthur Sherbo is a biographical book that delves into the life and contributions of Richard Farmer, a renowned academic and former Master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge. The book has received a mix of reviews from readers.

Some reviewers commend Sherbo for his meticulous research and attention to detail. They appreciate the wealth of information provided about Richard Farmer's upbringing, education, and professional achievements. These readers believe that Sherbo has done justice to Farmer's legacy by presenting a comprehensive and well-documented account.

However, other reviewers express their dissatisfaction with the book's writing style and organization. They find Sherbo's prose to be dry and scholarly, which makes it challenging to engage with the narrative. Some readers also criticize the lack of a clear structure, as the book jumps between chapters without smooth transitions.

A few reviewers mention the limited appeal of the book. They note that the subject matter may only interest those familiar with Emmanuel College or academic history. These readers feel that the book lacks broader appeal and fails to make Farmer's story accessible to a wider audience.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers recognize the significance and relevance of Richard Farmer's life and contributions to academia. They acknowledge that Sherbo's portrayal sheds light on an important figure in Cambridge's history and commend the author for bringing attention to lesser-known individuals in the academic world.

RichardFarmerMaster EmmanuelCollege Cambridge