Focusing on the intersections of Shakespeare's work with various cultural elements, this original book by a prominent expert delves into the connections between literature and contemporary society. The author explores how Shakespeare's themes resonate throughout history and in modern contexts, offering fresh insights into his influence on culture and criticism. Through this lens, readers are invited to reconsider the relevance of Shakespeare's plays in today's world.
Graham Holderness Books
Graham Holderness is a prominent British literary theorist and author, recognized for his foundational contributions to cultural materialism and the shaping of modern Shakespearean studies. His extensive work delves into Shakespearean works from original perspectives, including explorations of Arabic adaptations. Holderness also pioneers methods of critical-creative writing, blending factual and fictional elements to forge new interpretations of literary figures. His versatile output extends to novels, poetry, and drama, showcasing a broad scope and profound impact on the literary landscape.






Shakespeare and Venice
- 162 pages
- 6 hours of reading
Exploring the themes of metamorphosis, this study delves into how Shakespeare utilized the mythological allure of Venice in his works, particularly in The Merchant of Venice and Othello. Graham Holderness presents a comprehensive analysis of Venetian mythology and its historical ties with Judaism and Islam, offering detailed interpretations of Shakespeare's plays within the rich context of the city's legendary and historical significance.
Graham Holderness explores the ways in which 20th Century writers and film-makers have recreated the life of Christ in their work.
Petrol Station
- 96 pages
- 4 hours of reading
A desert. A border. A remote petrol station within earshot of civil war. This vividly imagined twilight zone provides the background for a familial standoff in which the crimes, secrets, and broken loves of one generation make violent claims on the lives of the next as two half-brothers vie for favours and allegiance from their ageing father.
Cultural Shakespeare
- 224 pages
- 8 hours of reading
This volume brings together a collection of Graham Holderness's writings on such topics as Shakespeare and national culture; the Shakespeare industry; and the Shakespeare Myth. schovat popis
A history play by William Shakespeare believed based on the life of King Richard II of England (ruled 1377-1399). The play begins with King Richard sitting majestically on his throne in full state, having been requested that he arbitrate a dispute between Thomas Mowbray and Richard's cousin, Henry Bolingbroke, who has accused Mowbray of squandering money given to him by Richard for the King's soldiers and of murdering his uncle, the Duke of Gloucester.
Presents a re-working of Shakespeare's Hamlet set in the Middle East. The setting of this version of the Hamlet story is a modern Middle-Eastern state whose old king has just died, to be replaced by his brother, a ruthless, westernised dictator who has married the old king's wife to legitimise his rule, and calls his regime a new democracy.
The book offers a fresh perspective on Shakespeare's writing, reflecting recent advancements in bibliography and textual studies that have transformed opinions on his collaborative processes and creative methods. Despite these insights, the author acknowledges that numerous mysteries about the playwright's work and relationships remain unresolved, inviting readers to explore the complexities of Shakespeare's literary legacy.
Set against a backdrop of historical intrigue, this novel intertwines the lives of Shakespeare, the enigmatic Dark Lady, and the infamous Guy Fawkes, all while introducing a supernatural twist with vampires. The story explores themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle for power in a world where the line between reality and myth blurs. As these iconic figures navigate their fates, the presence of vampires adds an unexpected layer of danger and excitement to their intertwined destinies.
Meat, Murder, Malfeasance, Medicine and Martyrdom
Smithfield Stories: Wat Tyler, Anne Askew, Sweeney Todd, Jack the Ripper, Heinrich Himmler & more ...
- 250 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Exploring the rich tapestry of London's Smithfield, this book uncovers sensational historical and personal narratives that shape its identity. It delves into the physical, cultural, and psychological aspects of the area, presenting a vivid portrayal of 'Little Britain.' Through these stories, it highlights the complexities of British national history and offers profound insights into the human condition, casting a revealing light on both the locale and broader societal themes.