The Norton Shakespeare : Book Review

"The Norton Shakespeare" is an indispensable and comprehensive collection of William Shakespeare's works. Edited by renowned scholars such as Stephen Greenblatt, this edition includes all of Shakespeare's plays, sonnets, and poems, accompanied by insightful annotations and commentaries that enhance the reader's understanding of the texts.

One of the distinguishing features of this edition is its user-friendly format. Each play is introduced with a helpful overview that provides context and background information. The plays themselves are presented in their original language but with modern spellings, making them accessible to a wide range of readers. Footnotes throughout the book offer explanations and interpretations of difficult words and phrases, allowing readers to fully grasp the richness of Shakespeare's language.

What sets this edition apart is the insightful commentary provided by the editors. Their analysis sheds light on the themes, motifs, and historical significance of each play. Additionally, the essays at the end of each play offer critical analysis and different interpretations, deepening the reader's understanding.

"The Norton Shakespeare" is highly regarded for its meticulous research and attention to detail. The editors have skillfully combined historical accuracy with literary analysis, creating a scholarly version that is also engaging for casual readers. The comprehensive nature of this edition, along with its helpful reference tools such as the glossary of characters and chronology of Shakespeare's plays, further enhances its value.

Whether you are a Shakespeare enthusiast, a student, or someone simply interested in exploring the brilliance of his works, "The Norton Shakespeare" is an essential resource. Its comprehensive collection, insightful commentaries, and meticulous research make it a must-have for anyone interested in studying or enjoying Shakespeare's timeless plays and poems.

What are readers saying?

The Norton Shakespeare, a highly acclaimed compilation of Shakespeare's works, has garnered a diverse range of reviews from Goodreads readers. The anthology is widely praised for its comprehensive nature and scholarly approach. A multitude of reviewers laud the extensive footnotes and essays accompanying each play, which provide valuable insights and analysis. This wealth of information greatly enhances readers' understanding and enjoyment of Shakespeare's works. The inclusion of alternate texts and various interpretations is also commended for offering a broader perspective on the plays.

Readers frequently mention the readability and accessibility of The Norton Shakespeare in their reviews. The layout and organization of the anthology are deemed user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation and quick location of specific plays or passages. To further contribute to a positive reading experience, helpful glossaries and timelines are included. Additionally, the anthology features high-quality illustrations and photographs, which, when coupled with the detailed introductions and annotations, create an immersive experience that enhances the appreciation of Shakespeare's works.

While the majority of reviewers highly praise The Norton Shakespeare, some express disappointment with the lack of concrete analysis and criticism provided. They feel that while the footnotes offer context, they do not delve deep enough to provide more profound insights that could further enrich the reading experience. Additionally, a few readers mention concerns with the durability of the physical book, noting that the pages can become loose over time.

In conclusion, The Norton Shakespeare is widely recognized as an excellent resource for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and scholars. Its comprehensive nature, insightful annotations, and user-friendly layout make it the go-to anthology for those seeking a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's works. Despite some readers having a desire for more in-depth analysis and some noting physical durability issues, The Norton Shakespeare is overwhelmingly praised for its scholarly approach and extensive coverage of Shakespeare's plays.