About the book
King Richard III is one of Shakespeare's most popular and frequently performed plays. Janis Lull's introduction to this new edition, based on the First Folio, emphasises the play's tragic themes – individual identity, determinism and choice – and stresses the importance of women's roles in the play. It also underscores the special relationship between Richard III and Macbeth, demonstrating that the later tragedy re-examines issues raised in the earlier one. A thorough performance history of stage and film versions of Richard III shows how the text has been cut, rewritten and reshaped by directors and actors to enhance the role of Richard at the expense of other parts, especially those of the women. This updated edition contains a new introductory section covering recent criticism and performances – including the RSC cycles of the history plays – of this perennially popular play. The notes define the play's language in terms easily accessible to contemporary readers.
Editions of King Richard III
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780521514743
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780521735568
Read an Excerpt
King Richard III is one of Shakespeare's most popular and frequently performed plays. Janis Lull's introduction to this new edition, based on the First Folio, emphasises the play's tragic themes – individual identity, determinism and choice – and stresses the importance of women's roles in the play. It also underscores the special relationship between Richard III and Macbeth, demonstrating that the later tragedy re-examines issues raised in the earlier one. A thorough performance history of stage and film versions of Richard III shows how the text has been cut, rewritten and reshaped by directors and actors to enhance the role of Richard at the expense of other parts, especially those of the women. This updated edition contains a new introductory section covering recent criticism and performances – including the RSC cycles of the history plays – of this perennially popular play. The notes define the play's language in terms easily accessible to contemporary readers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is King Richard III about?
King Richard III is one of Shakespeare's most popular and frequently performed plays. Janis Lull's introduction to this new edition, based on the First Folio, emphasises the play's tragic themes – individual identity, determinism and choice – and stresses the importance of women's roles in the play. It also underscores the special relationship between Richard III and Macbeth, demonstrating that the later tragedy re-examines issues raised in the earlier one. A thorough performance history of stage and film versions of Richard III shows how the text has been cut, rewritten and reshaped by directors and actors to enhance the role of Richard at the expense of other parts, especially those of the women. This updated edition contains a new introductory section covering recent criticism and performances – including the RSC cycles of the history plays – of this perennially popular play. The notes define the play's language in terms easily accessible to contemporary readers.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in King Richard III?
Biography, Literature and Literary studies > Plays, playscripts, drama > Classic plays / drama
Where can I read a sample of King Richard III?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780521514743
Is King Richard III part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series he New Cambridge Shakespeare
Who is/are the Author/s of the book King Richard III?
William Shakespeare
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
King Richard III is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780521514743) and paperback(ISBN 9780521735568)