>makes easily available the essential tools for understanding and enjoying Shakespeare's plays and poems, which means experiencing the deep and thrilling meanings of his works.

Part 1 offers the background knowledge--about Shakespeare's life, language, poetic and dramatic techniques, theatrical context, and historical and cultural background--that help you to appreciate Shakespeare's works. Part 2 offers short essays on twenty-two plays, pointing readers to the universally meaningful heart of each and illuminating themes often hidden or misrepresented in many stage and screen productions and critical writings. There is also a chapter dedicated to analysis of a selection of Shakespeare's sonnets.