historical drama, english

Contemporary critical opinion and commentary on Shakespeare's plays dealing with the reigns of English sovereigns of the preceding four hundred years.

Presents the stories of five of Shakespeare's plays: Antony and Cleopatra, Richard III, Henry IV, Henry V, and Julius Caesar.

Two historical tetralogies, and his narrative poems, in addition to the particular form of sonnet that now bears his name are examined through engaging text. Also a brief treatise on the music within and accompanying productions of Shakespeare's plays rounds out the coverage.

Compares and contrasts the work of sixteenth-century poet and playwright William Shakespeare and twentieth-century comedy troupe Monty Python, discussing their status as national poets of England, their uses of history, aspects of theatricality, and other topics.