The Works of William Shakespeare [Cambridge Edition] [Vol. 4 of 9]

This volume brings together a carefully edited selection of Shakespeare’s early histories, presenting the texts as they appeared in the first folios and early quartos. The editors guide listeners through the tangled publication history, explaining how plays like King John and Richard II evolved from earlier sources and were reshaped for the stage. Their notes highlight the differences between the original printings and later revisions, offering insight into the playwright’s craft and the theatrical conventions of the Elizabethan era.

Beyond the texts themselves, the book includes a scholarly preface that traces the lineage of each drama, from the obscure 1591 prints to the more polished folio editions. Listeners will appreciate the clear explanations of textual variants, the rationale for choosing specific versions, and the fascinating anecdotes about early 17th‑century booksellers who capitalized on Shakespeare’s fame. This edition is an ideal companion for anyone eager to explore the foundations of the Bard’s historical narratives.