The Riverside Shakespeare : Book Review

"The Riverside Shakespeare" is a renowned anthology of William Shakespeare's plays and poems, edited by G. Blakemore Evans. Widely regarded as one of the most authoritative and popular collections of Shakespeare's works available, this edition offers a comprehensive selection of his plays, including famous ones like "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Romeo and Juliet," as well as lesser-known works.

What sets "The Riverside Shakespeare" apart is the meticulous attention to detail in the editorial process. It features extensive footnotes that not only explain unfamiliar words and phrases but also provide historical context and offer interpretations of certain passages. This makes the text accessible to readers of all levels, from seasoned scholars to casual readers.

In addition to its thorough annotations, the book provides a range of supplementary materials that enhance its value as a reference tool. It includes a glossary of unfamiliar terms, a chronology of Shakespeare's life and works, and a user-friendly index that allows for easy navigation. These resources contribute to the overall usefulness of "The Riverside Shakespeare" for students, scholars, and enthusiasts alike.

Moreover, the physical aspects of the book are well-regarded. It has a durable hardcover, making it long-lasting. The typeface and formatting are carefully considered, ensuring clear and easy reading. The inclusion of beautiful illustrations further enlivens the reading experience and adds visual interest.

In summary, "The Riverside Shakespeare" is highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring or studying Shakespeare's works. With its comprehensive selection, meticulous annotations, and supplementary resources, it is an indispensable tool for understanding and appreciating his timeless literature. Whether for academic study or leisurely reading, this edition offers an exceptional experience for Shakespeare enthusiasts.

What are readers saying?

The Riverside Shakespeare edition is highly acclaimed among readers on Goodreads as an exceptional compilation of William Shakespeare's works. Product reviews for this book emphasize its extensive content, meticulous annotations, and accessibility for both casual readers and scholars.

Many reviewers commend The Riverside Shakespeare for its comprehensive collection of Shakespeare's plays, poems, and sonnets. Readers appreciate the convenience of having all of his works neatly compiled in one volume, eliminating the need for multiple books. This comprehensive approach adds value to the edition and makes it an essential addition to any Shakespeare enthusiast's library.

The high-quality annotations included in The Riverside Shakespeare also receive praise. Readers find the annotations to be well-researched and informative, providing valuable insights into the plays and their historical context. They assist readers in understanding the intricacies and references in Shakespeare's works, making the book accessible to both seasoned scholars and newcomers to his writings.

Reviewers also highlight the user-friendly design of The Riverside Shakespeare. They appreciate the clear formatting, which includes line numbers and footnotes, facilitating easy navigation and the locating of specific passages. This user-friendly layout enhances the reading experience for individuals studying Shakespeare academically or simply enjoying his works for pleasure.

The thorough introductions and critical essays provided in The Riverside Shakespeare are also well-received. Readers find these additional materials to be insightful and well-written, delving into the themes, motifs, and interpretations found within Shakespeare's plays. These essays enhance readers' understanding of the works and encourage further exploration and analysis.

#Shakespeare #ClassicLiterature #Bookworms