The Plays of Shakespeare: A Thematic GuideTouching viewers and readers with his presentation of social, moral, and political issues, Shakespeare holds ageless and unequaled appeal primarily because of the universal themes at the heart of his dramatic works. Shakespeare scholar Victor Cahn takes a unique approach to exploring the plays by identifying and explicating the themes that recur throughout the canon. Written in lively language, each of the 35 essays explores a core theme or topic and discusses its implications in several key plays in which it figures prominently. This user-friendly guide not only allows readers to better understand the significance of concepts such as power, politics, marriage or money; the organization by theme also helps users to compare and contrast these important topics across relevant plays. Cahn draws vivid connections between related works of Shakespeare, but just as importantly, enlightens readers as to the pertinence of these themes in contemporary life. |
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... Bullingbrook by contrast sees it in materialistic terms as the object of his return from exile and the means to reward his allies (2.3.48, 66). Richard's descent from Act 2 onwards is passive, 'patient' and fatalistic while Bullingbrook's ...
... Bullingbrook to counteract the ill effects of Richard's reign . Before he has even been officially crowned , Bullingbrook confronts a considerable number of angry accusations as one by one the lords challenge Aumerle to duel until he ...
... Bullingbrook's story remains unfinished . But Shakespeare anticipates the civil war that will wrack his reign . The role of Northumberland , who cooperates with Bullingbrook but will eventually turn against him , is greatly expanded ...