Culture and Society in Shakespeare’s Day

Gr 9 Up–These titles includes a biography of the Bard, an overview of English literature and theater during Shakespeare’s time, and a general overview of English culture and history during the late-15th- and early-16th century. All three volumes contain a wealth of accurate historical information as well as recent scholarship and refer extensively to primary-source material. There are also “special features” on subjects such as “Religious Conflict in Shakespeare’s England” and “Was Shakespeare Somebody Else?” Numerous photos and archival reproductions, many in color and many from sources contemporary with Shakespeare, are included. Each chapter ends with a list of sources and further reading. Although the set might appear to be introductory, its complexity and scholarly approach are probably more suitable for advanced students than for newcomers to Shakespeare. This is particularly true of the volume on English literature and theater. The biography is surprisingly lengthy, given how little is known for certain about Shakespeare’s life; it is filled out with analyses of the plays placed in chronological context. Solid choices for libraries supporting advanced placement or college level Shakespeare classes.–Kathleen E. Gruver, Burlington County Library, Westampton, NJ