The First Quarto of King Lear

The First Quarto of King Lear by William Shakespeare is a revised edition published by Cambridge University Press in 1994. This edition is based on the first quarto from 1608, presenting a version of the play that differs significantly from the folio published in 1623. The book includes a substantial introduction, the text of the first quarto, and a collation of variant readings, highlighting the unique passages and differences that influence the structure and characterization of the play.

Readers will find that this edition offers insights into the variations between the first quarto and the folio, which can affect the overall impact of the narrative. The inclusion of an appendix with passages unique to the Folio further enriches the exploration of Shakespeare’s work. With 141 pages, this edition serves as a valuable resource for those interested in drama, literary collections, and the intricacies of Shakespearean fiction.