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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... hand , Blood and revenge are hammering in my head . ( II , iii , 38-39 ) Never , however , does he give specific causes for his cynicism . Perhaps Shakespeare's audience would have assumed that his attitude is based on his blackness and ...
... hand , he is unashamedly antagonistic to other countries and cultures , and hardly ever do we read a kind word about them . On the other hand , he is boldly patriotic , and his praises to his country may be appreciated as meant to ...
... hand . March sadly after , grace my mournings here , In weeping after this untimely bier . ( V , vi , 45-52 ) The King recognizes what we do : the paradoxical consequences of his actions . On one hand , the removal of Richard II was ...