The Henry Irving Shakespeare

The Henry Irving Shakespeare by William Shakespeare is an illustrated edition published by Cambridge University Press on July 20, 2009. This 510-page volume presents a unique perspective on Shakespeare’s works, shaped by the influential Victorian actor Henry Irving. Irving’s involvement emphasizes a unified approach to each play, focusing on the intellectual aspects rather than solely on emotional impact, making this edition distinct in its treatment of the text.
Readers will find that this edition not only includes notes on cuts used by professional companies but also offers suggestions for amateur performances, catering to a broad audience. The illustrations by Gordon Browne enhance the experience by reflecting contemporary stage costume styles, appealing to both Shakespearians and theatre historians. This edition provides insights into the plays as they were intended for performance, making it a valuable resource for those interested in literary collections and literary criticism.
Official synopsis Publisher
Henry Irving, the influential and controversial Victorian actor, was closely involved in the publication of this distinctive Shakespeare edition. As an actor, his concern was largely with the intellectual project of seeing each play as a unified work, rather than with producing strong emotional effects in the audience. In the words of his obituary in The Times, he appealed to scholars ‘by his reverent and often acute treatment of the text’, and accustomed playgoers to look for ‘more than empty amusement’. To the edition, he brought a sense of the plays in performance which has never been equalled before or since. Addressing a general readership, he both included notes on cuts used by professional companies and suggested others that would facilitate amateur performances. Gordon Browne’s illustrations, which suggest the contemporary styles of stage costume, are another attractive feature of this edition, which will appeal to Shakespearians and theatre historians alike.
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