King Lear

Halio (English, U. of Delaware) collects 18 new and reprinted essays by literature scholars from the US and Israel who analyze the context and content of Shakespeare's King Lear. Following a biography of Shakespeare, historical background on the play, and readings of key passages and the use of imagery, versification, and allusion in them, essays are presented on the contrast between the play and Marlowe's Tamburlaine and critical reception to it. These are followed by reprinted essays on topics such as a comparison of the two texts of the play, its sources in myths and archetypal legends, its language and imagery, a scene-by-scene reading, adaptations of aspects of comedy for tragic effect, and themes of patriarchy and the role of the mother and suffering. Annotation 穢2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)