Stanley Wells

Shakespeare's comedy of mistaken romance, in which a shipwrecked woman disguises herself as a man in order to help woo a lover for a Duke, but with unexpected results. This edition includes a selection from Shakespeare's original source, dramatic criticism from past and present, and a comprehensive stage and screen history of notable actors, directors, and productions of the play.

How does Shakespeare's treatment of human sexuality relate to the sexual conventions and language of his times? Wells draws on historical and anecdotal sources to present an account of sexual behavior in Shakespeare's time, particularly in Stratford-upon-Avon and London. He explores sexuality in the poetry of the period and the ways in which Shakespeare treats sexuality in his plays and relates sexuality to love.

"Whether you are new to the poetry and proses of Shakespeare, and in need of a guide through the complex plots and unfamiliar language, or looking for a fresh perspective on his much-loved plays and sonnets, this book will shed light on the work of one of world literature's greatest figures"--Page [4] of cover.

"A truly fun, accessible, and contextually rich companion to the vast world and work of Shakespeare. Spanning the historical and contemporary, and the literary and dramatic, this authoritative and illustrative 3,000-entry compendium is well constructed, solidly cross-referenced, and above all, delightful and interesting reading."--"Outstanding Reference Sources, " American Libraries, May 2002.