To a contemporary feminist, The Taming of the Shrew is surely anathema. A strong woman is shown to be easily manipulated and ends up subjugated by a somewhat insensitive and boorish man. Yet, despite the real objections, the play has been popular for centuries in itself, in adaptations (Tamed and How, or The Push), and a wildly popular musical (Kiss Me, Kate). Thus, one may be forced to concede that there is an element here that transcends the knockabout, slapstick humor. Something here, as in most of Shakespeare, transcends the literal, causing audiences to continue to enjoy the basic...

To a contemporary feminist, The Taming of the Shrew is surely anathema. A strong woman is shown to be easily manipulated and ends up subjugated by a somewhat insensitive and boorish man. Yet, despite the real objections, the play has been popular for centuries in itself, in adaptations (Tamed and How, or The Push), and a wildly popular musical (Kiss Me, Kate). Thus, one may be forced to concede that there is an element here that transcends the knockabout, slapstick humor. Something here, as in most of Shakespeare, transcends the literal, causing audiences to continue to enjoy the basic...

In only two plays-The Comedy of Errors and The Tempest--does Shakespeare observe the unities of time, action, and place. While these apparent constraints seem to restrict the playwright, they also demonstrate an artistry that transcends the apparent restrictions, especially in The Tempest. The added themes of justice satisfied and of young love realized make for a satisfying blend of artistry and stagecraft.

In only two plays-The Comedy of Errors and The Tempest--does Shakespeare observe the unities of time, action, and place. While these apparent constraints seem to restrict the playwright, they also demonstrate an artistry that transcends the apparent restrictions, especially in The Tempest. The added themes of justice satisfied and of young love realized make for a satisfying blend of artistry and stagecraft.

It is probably natural that a reader feel sympathy for Desdemona; falsely accused, she suffers some of the most offensive name-calling in all of Shakespeare. But it is also appropriate to sympathize with Othello. He becomes malleable in the hands of Iago who molds him to his own vindictive purpose, never disclosing his reasons. Additionally, one should admire Emilia who is truly heroic in her denial of the accusations against Desdemona, her resistance to her husband's subjugation of her, and in her triumphant realization of justice and punishment for wrongdoing.

It is probably natural that a reader feel sympathy for Desdemona; falsely accused, she suffers some of the most offensive name-calling in all of Shakespeare. But it is also appropriate to sympathize with Othello. He becomes malleable in the hands of Iago who molds him to his own vindictive purpose, never disclosing his reasons. Additionally, one should admire Emilia who is truly heroic in her denial of the accusations against Desdemona, her resistance to her husband's subjugation of her, and in her triumphant realization of justice and punishment for wrongdoing.

Henry IV, Part One is a rich play: rich in drama and intrigue, political machinations, and comedy. Not only does Prince Harry (Hal) redeem himself in his father's eyes, he also satisfies audience expectations. One important sub-plot running throughout the play is the questionable ascension of Henry IV to the throne. Additionally, one cannot ignore the comparison between Prince Harry and Hotspur (Harry Monmouth). Finally there is the dominant character of Falstaff, larger than a life portrait which no artist could possibly capture. One might cavil at Falstaff's disregard for truth, for his...

Henry IV, Part One is a rich play: rich in drama and intrigue, political machinations, and comedy. Not only does Prince Harry (Hal) redeem himself in his father's eyes, he also satisfies audience expectations. One important sub-plot running throughout the play is the questionable ascension of Henry IV to the throne. Additionally, one cannot ignore the comparison between Prince Harry and Hotspur (Harry Monmouth). Finally there is the dominant character of Falstaff, larger than a life portrait which no artist could possibly capture. One might cavil at Falstaff's disregard for truth, for his...