Graham Holderness Book order
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.






- 2022
- 2021
This newly revised fictional re-writing of the Hamlet story is set in a time somewhere between the Scandinavian Dark Ages - out of which the original tale of Hamlet came - and the Renaissance society of Shakespeare's play. Graham Holderness's novel provides both a prequel and a sequel to Shakespeare's Hamlet: beginning with the great duel fought between his father King Amled and Fortinbras' father Prince Fortenbrasse; and continuing after Hamlet's death to tell both his story, and that of his invented son. In the light of this re-imagined history, the conflicts and alliances between ancient Viking chivalry, Renaissance realpolitik and Christian forgiveness are dramatically explored.
- 2020
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.
- 2020
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.
- 2019
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.
- 2017
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.
- 2016
The Faith of William Shakespeare
- 238 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Graham Holderness examines the evidence for Shakespeare's beliefs both from his life and key works.
- 2015
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.
- 2014
Graham Holderness explores the ways in which 20th Century writers and film-makers have recreated the life of Christ in their work.
- 2014
Tales from Shakespeare
- 257 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Combines the critical and the creative, looking at the collisions that arise when Shakespeare texts are recreated in contemporary contexts.