Plant-Lore and Garden-Craft of Shakespeare

"A very readable and graceful volume."?Saturday Review
"Entitled from its worth to a place in every Shakespearian library."?Spectator
"As accurate as it is delightful."?Gardener's Chronicle
"Deserves a place on the shelves of both the student of Shakespeare and the lover of plant lore."?Journal of Botany
"The fullest and best book on the subject."?The Literary World
From Ophelia's pansies and Lear's crown of weeds to Desdemona's song of the willow and the many botanical references in A Midsummer Night's Dream, the plays and sonnets of William Shakespeare abound in allusions to trees, flowers, herbs, and shrubs. This unique book explores a charming intersection of nature and literature, examining every plant mentioned by the playwright.
An alphabetical glossary cites each plant, placing the quotation in context and discussing its symbolism. A synopsis of the plant's history is followed by practical advice for its cultivation. Dozens of engravings of plants appear throughout the book, in addition to full-page illustrations of Shakespeare's garden and other Avon sites. Shakespeare enthusiasts, historians, plant lovers, and gardeners will appreciate this comprehensive botanical survey and identification guide.
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