Description

Construction in Shakespeare by Hereward T. Price is an insightful exploration of the structural genius within Shakespeare's plays. Stemming from a lecture delivered at the University of Michigan upon his retirement in 1949, Price delves into the often overlooked craftsmanship of Shakespeare's dramatic construction. Far from mere natural talent, Shakespeare's work is demonstrated to be a product of meticulous design, with each play presenting unique construction challenges and innovations. Price critiques past and present scholars for undervaluing Shakespeare's structural prowess, while showcasing the playwright’s sophisticated use of dialogue, scene construction, recurring motifs, and irony. By dissecting plays like Love's Labour’s Lost and Henry VI: Part I Price argues convincingly that Shakespeare’s dramas are masterpieces of intellectual and artistic order, dismissing the notion that Shakespeare's success was purely accidental or solely rooted in his poetic talents. This book appeals to both scholars and enthusiasts, shedding new light on the disciplined creativity that defines Shakespeare’s enduring legacy.