Publication
Oxford University Press (2000), 512 p.
Original publication date
1998
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Description
In the most complete, accurate, and up-to-date narrative of Shakespeare's life ever written, Park Honan uses a wealth of fresh information to dramatically alter our perceptions of the actor, poet, and playwright. The young poet's relationships, his early courtship of Anne Hathaway, their marriage, his attitudes to women such as Jennet Davenant, Marie Mountjoy, and his own daughters, are seen in a new light, illuminating Shakespeare's needs, habits, passions and concerns. Park Honan examines the world of the playing companies -- the power of patronage, theatrical conditions, and personal rivalry
User reviews
LibraryThing member jcbrunner
Park Honan’s Shakespeare biography is filled with wonderful details as long as he is not speaking about the bard himself. Shakespeare’s family background and what happened after his death are extensively presented. As far as Shakespeare’s life is concerned, Honan often fills the large gaps
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with discussions about Shakespeare’s works, which while worthwhile isn’t actually the purpose of a proper biography. The main victim of this approach is Anne Hathaway. Shakespeare’s wife hardly appears in the narrative at all. Was it really a marriage à distance? Another aspect I want to learn more about is the risk of Shakespeare’s work not finally appearing in print. Was there really a chance of them not being preserved for posteriority? Overall, a good introduction with a big hole in the middle that is papered over by the discussion of Shakespeare’s works. The man behind them remains an enigma. Show Less
LibraryThing member knightlight777
I love biographies. I did not like this one much. At times written as tedious and difficult as some of the subjects's plays in original text.
It is interesting how little is really known about Shakespeare in his life. The author spends much more time on the plays then the life in my view.
It is interesting how little is really known about Shakespeare in his life. The author spends much more time on the plays then the life in my view.
Language
Original language
English
ISBN
9780192825278
Physical description
512 p.; 8.5 inches
Pages
512