The Wit and Wisdom of Shakespeare: 32 Sonnets Made Thoroughly Accessible

(Paperback)

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Description

In partnerships with the website sonnetsofshakespeare.com, which contains video recordings of the author reciting each sonnet, The Wit and Wisdom of Shakespeare thoroughly demystifies 32 of Shakespeares sonnets. Each is presented and illuminated by a short Essence Statement, clarified in a Diagram for Greater Understanding, and described in a unique and entertaining narrative description. Embedded within the descriptions are tidbits of interesting information about Shakespeare, his associates, and cultural circumstances of the timealong with writing techniques and word play in which Shakespeare indulged, and observations from Shakespeare scholars.

Reviews

Walters examines 32 of Shakespeares sonnets in this brief, informative investigation. As the author suggests, people are probably more familiar with Shakespeares plays than his poetry. Each chapter discusses six or seven sonnets around a theme, such as living lifes span or managing relationships. The pattern for each chapter is the same: a copy of the sonnet, a few sentences on the sonnets essential message, a diagram of the sonnet, and two pages of commentary. In the commentary, Walters provides a brief analysis of the sonnet, some background from Shakespeares life, and some reference to issues that may have arisen in the scholarship about Shakespeare and the individual to whom the sonnet was dedicated. This is an accessible, enlightening perspective on the poems. Readers who are new to Shakespeares work and those who are steeped in it will enjoy this book and gain from it.

Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers.

* Choice Reviews *

Darrel Walters has crafted a wonderful gift for readers of Shakespeare's sonnets at every level. For the novice, a sound and reliable primer; for the experienced reader, a rich and
surprising collection of insights.

-- Ejner J. Jensen, professor emeritus, University of Michigan
The Wit and Wisdom of Shakespeare is an entertaining primer that will be particularly valuable to students encountering the Bard for the first time. It is easy to read and navigate. Darrel Walters provides a diagram, summary, and basic explanation of each sonnet that is truly excellent. In a light, charming voice, Walters deftly works in facts, anecdotes, and scholarly quotes, which point to his own wit and wisdom. -- Thea Howey, Teacher of Shakespeares Works, Montgomery County Community College

If only this was around when I was in school, how much simpler life would have been!
Condensed into neat little packages waiting to be unwrapped, Wit and Wisdom makes it easy for todays 21st century learners to tackle Shakespeare. The thematic thread woven throughout the visual and written analysis guides the reader in dissecting Shakespeares complexity and depth, opening the readers mind to true accessibility.

-- Emily Abram, 9th Grade English Teacher, Wissahickon High School
After decades of feeling challenged to fully understand and appreciate Shakespeares masterpieces and their relevance to our time, Ive been rescued by Darrel Walters eminently readable treatise. It brings William Shakespeare and his sonnets to life, unfolds the full beauty of his language, and explains the messages of the sonnets in the context of modern culture and vernacular. Its a masterpiece in itself. -- Geoffrey Thomas, retired Corporate Executive, Greater Philadelphia Area

Author Bio

Darrel Walters, a former public school teacher and university professor with a
Ph.D. from The University of Michigan, has published books on writing skills and assessment techniques, and written poetry for both children and adults. He presents poetry programs in various venues, and his intense interest in the sonnets of Shakespeare has prompted him to make The Sonnets eminently accessible to readers of all ages.