history and criticism

Explains how to use critical theory to analyze the works of Andrew Lloyd Webber and provides overviews of his musical productions as well as critiques of each.

Explains how to use critical theory to analyze the music of Paul McCartney and provides overviews of the songs, albums, and musical periods of the musician as well as critiques of each.

Discusses the work by Shakespeare in great detail to provide the reader with a greater understanding of the characters in Hamlet.

British filmmaker Alex Cox offers an analysis of the Spaghetti Western genre, profiling influential films, directors, and actors who shaped the genre and discussing their influence on the film industry.

Contains plot synopses and analysis of thirty western film series produced between the mid-1930s and the early 1950s, including Hopalong Cassidy, The Durango Kid, and The Three Mesquiteers.

Offers an illustrated history of silent movies from the 1890s to the 1920s, profiling key actors, directors, and films that defined the genre and influenced the future of the film industry and exploring how the technologies, marketing ideas, and visual styles that originated with silent films are still used in Hollywood today.

A memoir in which rock critic Steve Almond discusses his obsession with rock music and its role in every aspect of his life, shares stories of some of his experiences pursuing the rock-and-roll lifestyle, and includes lists and recommendations.

Presents a critical edition of Mark Twain's classic novel, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," and includes textual and explanatory notes, background information, profile of the author, and seven critical essays.

Provides information about daily life in nineteenth-century England, discussing the rules, regulations, and customs that governed the behavior of people in Victorian times.

A two-volume set that provides detailed biographical profiles of twenty-four of the most influential men and women in the history of rock and roll music, exploring their inspirations, innovations, and lasting impact on rock and roll music.