Gathers all of Shakespeare's plays, sonnets, and poems.
John Dover Wilson Books






The Copy for Hamlet 1603, and the Hamlet Transcript 1593
- 76 pages
- 3 hours of reading
Culturally significant, this work preserves the essence of its original artifact, featuring authentic copyright references and library stamps. It serves as a vital contribution to the knowledge base of civilization, reflecting the historical context in which it was created. The reproduction aims to remain faithful to the original, offering readers insight into its legacy and importance in scholarly discourse.
The Tempest
- 259 pages
- 10 hours of reading
This authoritative edition from The Folger Shakespeare Library presents a trusted version of a classic tale. The Tempest features Prospero, a magician and former duke of Milan, who is exiled on an island with his daughter, Miranda, the spirit Ariel, and the monster Caliban. When a storm brings his enemies to the island, Prospero uses his powers through Ariel and other spirits to confront them. The characters blur the lines between heroism and villainy; Prospero, while seemingly noble, enslaves Caliban and seeks revenge, while Caliban, initially portrayed as monstrous for attacking Miranda, displays a form of heroism in resisting Prospero, reflecting the colonial themes of the era. The resolution comes with Miranda's engagement to Ferdinand, a prince among the shipwrecked. This edition features freshly edited text from the best early printed version, full explanatory notes, scene-by-scene summaries, a guide to famous lines, an introduction to Shakespeare’s language, and a modern essay by a leading scholar. Additionally, it includes fresh images from the Folger’s rare book collection and an annotated guide for further reading. The Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, DC, houses the largest collection of Shakespeare's works and offers public exhibitions and performances throughout the year. For more details, visit Folger.edu.
The Fortunes of Falstaff
- 164 pages
- 6 hours of reading
The Essential Shakespeare, a Biographical Adventure
- 168 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Leslie Stephen and Matthew Arnold as Critics of Wordsworth
Leslie Stephen Lecture 1939
- 60 pages
- 3 hours of reading
Focusing on the critical reception of Wordsworth, this work by John Dover Wilson, first published in 1939, provides valuable insights and analysis for scholars and enthusiasts alike. It explores the evolution of Wordsworth's reputation and the various interpretations of his poetry, making it a significant resource for understanding the poet's impact on literature and criticism.
Life in Shakespeare's England
- 312 pages
- 11 hours of reading
This collection focuses on republishing classic works from the early 1900s and earlier, which have become rare and costly. The editions aim to provide affordable access while preserving the original text and artwork, ensuring that these timeless pieces remain available to contemporary readers.
John Lyly
- 126 pages
- 5 hours of reading
Focusing on Renaissance drama, particularly Shakespeare, John Dover Wilson was a notable scholar and professor. His academic journey included prestigious institutions like Lancing College and Cambridge, leading to his role as Regius Professor of English Literature at the University of Edinburgh. He is best remembered for his editorial work on the New Shakespeare series, which aimed to provide comprehensive editions of Shakespeare's plays, collaborating with Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch to enhance the understanding of these classic works.
This reissue of a long-out-of-print collection features each work accompanied by an engaging introduction, the main text, and extensive notes and a glossary. It aims to enhance the reader's understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare's timeless works, making them accessible and informative for both new and seasoned readers.
