Shakespeare and the problem play : complex forms, crossed genres, and moral quandaries / E.L. Risden.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Risden, Edward L., 1957-

Contributor:

Horace Howard Furness Memorial Library (University of Pennsylvania)

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616--Tragicomedies.

Shakespeare, William.

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616.

Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616--Criticism and interpretation.

Criticism and interpretation.

Moral conditions in literature.

Ethics in literature.

Physical Description:

vii, 224 pages ; 23 cm

Place of Publication:

Jefferson, N.C. : McFarland, [2012]

Summary:

"Shakespeare's plays are a rich source of genre as well as moral or ethical issues that invite deep study. The genre issue often proves the very moral crux where Shakespeare raises complex questions. He aimed to build good plays, not simple fulfillments of genre demands. To him "good plays" meant leaving his audience with problems to consider"-- Provided by publisher.

Contents:

Preface: the idea of the problem play

The merchant of Venice: does anybody know the quality of mercy?

Troilus and Cressida and the consummate anti-genre

All's well that ends well: not really

Straining the quality of mercy: Measure for measure

Comedic problem plays

Tragic problem plays

History and romance: problems of love

Adventure, and language.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9780786472437

078647243X

OCLC:

811137270