William Shakespeare Books

William Shakespeare is perhaps the most famous writer in all of English literature. He lived at the height of the English Renaissance and penned such iconic plays as Hamlet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Richard III, as well as a series of over 100 sonnets and other poetry.

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1
 Books: Macbeth by William Shakespeare

Macbeth

William Shakespeare
4.6 (165 ratings)
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What's Macbeth about?

Macbeth (1606) is the Shakespearean tragedy of Scottish general Macbeth and his doomed attempt to seize his country’s throne. His ambitions ignited by a prophecy spoken to him by three witches, Macbeth’s path to power begins with anxiety and reticence and ends with callousness and cruelty. His story is a timeless exploration of guilt, paranoia, madness, prophecy, and the evils of ambition.

Who should read Macbeth?

  • Shakespeare lovers who haven’t had the chance to read Macbeth 
  • Those who find Shakespeare’s original language difficult to enjoy
  • Macbeth fans who want a refresher

2
 Books: Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

Romeo and Juliet

William Shakespeare
4.8 (49 ratings)
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What's Romeo and Juliet about?

Romeo and Juliet (c. 1591-1597) is the iconic tragedy of two youths who fall in love amid the feud raging between their two families. The many themes it explores include love and hate, fate and free will, and dream and reality.

Who should read Romeo and Juliet?

  • Romantic souls
  • Shakespeare fans who want a Romeo and Juliet refresher
  • Anyone trying to up their knowledge of classic literature

3
 Books: Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Hamlet

William Shakespeare
4.7 (102 ratings)
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What's Hamlet about?

Hamlet (c. 1509-1601) is widely regarded as Shakespeare’s greatest play. A tragedy in five parts, it tells the story of Prince Hamlet, a thinker who must turn to action to avenge his father. It’s not only the finely crafted plot that’s fascinated readers and theatergoers down the centuries, though – Hamlet is also a penetrating study of the meaning of life and death.

Who should read Hamlet?

  • Shakespeare lovers who haven’t gotten around to reading Hamlet
  • Those who find Shakespeare’s original language difficult to enjoy
  • Fans of Hamlet who want a refresher

What's Richard III about?

Richard III is a historical play by William Shakespeare that delves into the Machiavellian rise to power and reign of King Richard III of England. Filled with political intrigue, manipulation, and betrayal, the play offers a compelling portrayal of one of Shakespeare's most complex and villainous characters. It explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of unchecked power.

Who should read Richard III?

  • Enthusiastic readers who enjoy Shakespearean tragedies
  • History buffs interested in the War of the Roses
  • Students studying English literature or drama

What's Othello about?

Othello is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of jealousy, betrayal, and racism. Set in Venice, the story follows the Moorish general Othello as he falls victim to the manipulations of his ensign, Iago. This classic work explores the destructive power of suspicion and the tragic consequences it brings.

Who should read Othello?

  • For literature enthusiasts who enjoy exploring Shakespeare's classic works
  • Individuals interested in themes of jealousy, betrayal, and racial issues
  • Readers who appreciate intricate character development and psychological drama

6
 Books: Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare

Measure for Measure

William Shakespeare

What's Measure for Measure about?

Measure for Measure is a thought-provoking play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of justice, morality, and power. Set in Vienna, the story follows the Duke as he temporarily hands over power to Angelo, who rules with strict enforcement of the law. When a young man named Claudio is sentenced to death for impregnating his fiancée, his sister Isabella pleads for mercy. The play raises questions about the nature of justice and the abuse of authority.

Who should read Measure for Measure?

  • Readers who enjoy Shakespeare's exploration of moral and ethical dilemmas
  • Individuals interested in the themes of justice, mercy, and power
  • People looking for a thought-provoking play that raises complex questions about human behavior

7
 Books: The Tempest by William Shakespeare

The Tempest

William Shakespeare
4.4 (29 ratings)
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What's The Tempest about?

The Tempest (1623) is the ultimate revenge story. After being exiled from Milan by his scheming brother, the sorcerer Prospero uses his magical powers to conjure a storm that shipwrecks his enemies on his island, where he uses a series of magical illusions to take his vengeance. 

Who should read The Tempest?

  • Shakespeare-lovers looking to fill the gaps in their knowledge of the bard’s repertoire
  • Fantasy enthusiasts interested in one of the earliest treatments of magic in literature
  • Anyone whose interest is piqued by shipwrecks, sorcery, and vengeance

8
 Books: Shakespeare's Sonnets by William Shakespeare

Shakespeare's Sonnets

William Shakespeare

What's Shakespeare's Sonnets about?

Shakespeare's Sonnets is a collection of 154 poems written by William Shakespeare. It explores themes of love, beauty, and mortality, and is considered one of the greatest works of English literature. Each sonnet is a 14-line poem written in iambic pentameter and follows a specific rhyme scheme. The book delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, making it a timeless classic.

Who should read Shakespeare's Sonnets?

  • Individuals who appreciate poetry and want to explore Shakespeare's work

  • Students studying literature or English who need to analyze and understand Shakespeare's sonnets

  • People looking for timeless insights into love, beauty, and the human experience


9
 Books: Othello by William Shakespeare

Othello

William Shakespeare

What's Othello about?

Othello is a tragic play by William Shakespeare that delves into themes of jealousy, race, and betrayal. Set in Venice, the story follows the Moorish general Othello, whose life is torn apart by his ensign Iago's deceitful manipulation. As Othello becomes consumed by jealousy, the play explores the destructive power of suspicion and the tragic consequences that unfold.

Who should read Othello?

  • Readers who enjoy classic literature and Shakespeare's works

  • Those interested in exploring themes of jealousy, manipulation, and racism

  • People who appreciate complex characters and intricate plot twists


10
 Books: Richard III by William Shakespeare

Richard III

William Shakespeare

What's Richard III about?

Richard III is a historical play by William Shakespeare that portrays the Machiavellian rise to power and short reign of King Richard III of England. Filled with political intrigue, manipulation, and betrayal, the play explores themes of ambition, power, and the consequences of unchecked desire for control. It is a compelling examination of the darker aspects of human nature and the pursuit of authority.

Who should read Richard III?

  • Readers who enjoy historical dramas and political intrigue

  • Shakespeare enthusiasts looking to explore one of his lesser-known plays

  • People interested in the psychology of power and ambition