Four Tragedies: Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth
(Paperback)
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Publishing Details
Four Tragedies: Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth
By (Author) William Shakespeare
Edited by George Hunter
Edited by Kenneth Muir
Edited by T. Spencer
Introduction by Ann Barton
Penguin Books Ltd
Penguin Classics
27th October 1994
27th October 1994
United Kingdom
Classifications
General
Non Fiction
Literary studies: plays and playwrights
Literary studies: c 1600 to c 1800
822.33
Physical Properties
Paperback
960
Width 129mm, Height 198mm, Spine 40mm
649g
Description
The theme of the great Shakespearean tragedies is the fall from grace of a great man due to a flaw in his nature. Whether it is the ruthless ambition of Macbeth or the folly of Lear, the irresolution of Hamlet or the suspicion of Othello, the cause of the tragedy - even when it is the murder of a king - is trifling compared to the calamity that it unleashes. Despite his flawed nature, however, the tragic hero has a nobility that emphasizes the greatness of man. From this paradox the audience is brought to a greater understanding of - and sympathy with - suffering. The four tragedies in this collection are accompanied by notes and an introduction to each text, making this edition of particular value to students and theatre-goers.
Author Bio
William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was born to John Shakespeare and mother Mary Arden some time in late April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon. He wrote about 38 plays (the precise number is uncertain), a collection of sonnets and a variety of other poems.
