Kenneth Muir Book order (chronological)

Focusing on the Comedy of Manners, this book explores its origins in English and French literature, distinguishing it from other comedic forms. It features in-depth chapters on key playwrights such as Etherege, Dryden, Wycherly, Congreve, Vanbrugh, and Farquhar, highlighting their contributions to the genre. Additionally, it examines Jeremy Collier's critique of the plays' immorality and profaneness, providing a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and literary context of the period.

Recognized for its cultural significance, this work contributes to the foundational knowledge of civilization. It has been chosen by scholars for its importance, highlighting its role in shaping understanding and perspectives within a historical context.

This new edition is based on the quarto, the version closest to the original manuscript. The introduction illminates the plays' origins and practicalities of composition, its reception and influence. Detailed notes pay especial attention to language and staging, and the volume includes King Lear's first derivative, a contemporary ballad, and guides to appreciation of the play and its multiple offshoots.

Promised a golden future as ruler of Scotland by three sinister witches, Macbeth murders the king to ensure his ambitions come true. But he soon learns the meaning of terror - killing once, he must kill again and again, and the dead return to haunt him. A story of war, witchcraft and bloodshed, Macbeth also depicts the relationship between husbands and wives, and the risks they are prepared to take to achieve their desires.

This is a critical study of Shakespeare's "King Lear" for "A" level students.

Leading Shakespearean scholars explore various aspects of the bard's life and works in this authoritative introduction to the entire field of Shakespeare studies