Shakespeare in the Eighteenth Century

"Shakespeare in the Eighteenth Century" offers a comprehensive examination of the transformation of William Shakespeare's reputation during one of the most significant periods in literary history. This scholarly work delves into the critical reception and theatrical adaptations of Shakespeare's plays from the late seventeenth century through the end of the 1700s. It traces the shift from the strict neoclassical standards of the early Augustan age to the burgeoning Romantic appreciation for Shakespeare's natural genius.

The work highlights the emergence of modern Shakespearean scholarship, including the contributions of editors and critics who sought to restore the original texts and understand the historical context of the plays. By analyzing both the written word and the history of the stage, David Nichol Smith illustrates how "Shakespeare in the Eighteenth Century" became the foundation for the Bard's enduring status as a cornerstone of the Western canon. Readers will find insightful discussions on the debates surrounding poetic justice, the three unities, and the evolution of dramatic performance in the London theaters. This volume is an essential resource for students of English literature, theater history, and the history of ideas, capturing a century's devotion to the world's greatest dramatist.

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