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Four Tragedies

Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth
4.42 goodreads logo

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( 18,066 ratings, 160 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Four Tragedies by William Shakespeare is a collection of plays delving into themes of ambition, betrayal, and the human condition. Each play explores intense emotional narratives driven by flawed characters, resulting in compelling, albeit tragic, conclusions. These timeless works offer insights into Shakespeare's mastery of drama and his ability to capture the complexities of human nature.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this collection if you're drawn to richly woven narratives exploring themes like ambition, fate, love, and betrayal. The timeless characters and dramatic plots showcase Shakespeare's mastery of tragedy, offering profound insights into the human condition within the framework of classic literature. This work can deeply engage those interested in the arts and culture of the Elizabethan era.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The theme of the great Shakespearean tragedies is the fall from grace of a great man due to a flaw in his nature. This title contains four tragedies.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The theme of the great Shakespearean tragedies is the fall from grace of a great man due to a flaw in his nature. Whether it is the ruthless ambition of Macbeth or the folly of Lear, the irresolution of Hamlet or the suspicion of Othello, the cause of the tragedy—even when it is the murder of a king—is trifling compared to the calamity that it unleashes.

Despite his flawed nature, however, the tragic hero has a nobility that emphasizes the greatness of man. From this paradox, the audience is brought to a greater understanding of—and sympathy with—suffering.

The four tragedies in this collection are accompanied by notes and an introduction to each text, making this edition of particular value to students and theatre-goers.

Four Tragedies by William Shakespeare offers an insightful exploration into the complexities of human nature and the dramatic consequences of personal failings.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Four Tragedies by William Shakespeare offers readers a collection of his most powerful and timeless plays, typically including "Hamlet," "Othello," "King Lear," and "Macbeth." Reviewers often praise the depth of character and intricate plotting found within these works, highlighting Shakespeare's unmatched ability to explore the human condition and universal themes. While considered essential reading, some note that the language can be challenging, but the emotional and intellectual rewards are worth the effort.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140434583

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 27 October 1994

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Edited by Kenneth Muir
  • Edited by T. Spencer
  • Edited by George Hunter
  • Introduction by Ann Barton

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 40.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 649g

Pages: 960

About the Author

William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was born to John Shakespeare and mother Mary Arden some time in late April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon. He wrote about 38 plays (the precise number is uncertain), a collection of sonnets and a variety of other poems.

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