The Treasures of William Shakespeare (RSC)

Author: Catherine M.S. Alexander

“Published in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and beautifully illustrated with contemporary images from Shakespeare’s time as well as photographs of RSC performances, this book explores the poet’s life and the enduring legacy of his work. It delves into the likely sources that inspired him to write such masterpieces as The Merchant of Venice, Othello and Macbeth and assesses the influences of subsequent generations of performers who have shown the “infinite variety” with which Shakespeare’s work can be adapted to all forms of media. The book is enhanced with 20 items of memorabilia, including Shakespeare’s marriage certificate and Will, an extract of the First Folio of 1623 and an extract from the prompt book for a production of Twelfth Night in 1965 directed by Sir John Gielgud.”

– Book Blurb

Shakespeare: Staging the World

Authors: Jonathan Bate and Dora Thornton

“Published to accompany a major exhibition at the British museum, which was part of the 2012 Cultural Olympiad and the World Shakespeare festival.

This exhibition book links historical objects and works of art with Shakespeare’s texts to reveal how the playwright informed his audiences of the major events and political issues of the day: a sixteenth- century dagger fished from the Thames gives new significance to the gang violence of Romeo and Juliet; Henry V’s saddle, helm and shield recall the depiction of war in the history plays; Guy Fawkes’ lantern illustrates the failed gunpowder plot, later to prove the inspiration for Macbeth.”

– Book Blurb