Eight Tragedies of Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s era, dominated by social and economic upheavals, also saw an increase in tragic drama. The playwright’s famous eight tragedies, Kiernan argues, represent the artistic expression of a new social and political consciousness that permeated every aspect of life. Eight Tragedies of Shakespeare provides an in-depth analysis of each tragedy, examining recurring themes in a historical context and exploring attitudes at the time toward monarchy, war, religion, philosophy, and shifting gender roles. A vivid and absorbing portrait of a writer and his times, Eight Tragedies of Shakespeare is a rich resource for anyone searching for radical new insight into the life of the world’s greatest dramatist.