Cerasano (literature, Colgate U., Hamilton, New York) introduces this journal of essays and reviews on drama and theater history prior to 1642. Six articles focus on topics including a case
that Hamlet's "to be or not to be" speech was intended to be overheard by Claudius rather than be a soliloquy as represented by post-Renaissance editors. Authors also discuss the authorship of
Arden of Faversham; aspects of Friar Bacon and Friar Bungay; the Fletcher-Massinger plays; Orlando as the period audience understood it; and illustrations in the Burden copy of The View of
London from the North. Thirteen reviews treat topics including the influence of early modern dietary guides on Shakespeare's plays, theater economics, and male friendship. Distributed by
Associated University Presses. Annotation 穢2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
