In 'Four Great Tragedies', Shakespeare masterfully weaves tales of ambition, betrayal, and the human condition through the tragic lives of his unforgettable characters. From the haunted halls of Elsinore in 'Hamlet' to the doomed love of 'Romeo and Juliet', each story exposes the depths of passion and madness. Explore how the pursuit of power leads to ruin in 'Macbeth', and witness the devastating consequences of jealousy in 'Othello'. Shakespeare's profound insights into fate and morality challenge us to reflect on our own choices and desires. Dive into these timeless narratives that blend poetic language with the darkest aspects of humanity.
By William Shakespeare
Published: 1998
"This above all: to thine own self be true."
The greatest tragic plays of William Shakespeare—including Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and Macbeth. What is tragedy? The Elizabethans defined it as a “lofty” play showing “personages of great state” caught up in a “lamentable” action that “beginneth prosperously and endeth unfortunately.” Whether judged by this or any other standard, the plays selected for this collection are considered to be the four central works of Shakespearean tragedy and must be included in any list of the world's finest tragic literature. This collection in the Signet Classics Shakespeare series includes: • An overview of William Shakespeare’s life, world, and theater • A special introduction by the series’ general editor, Sylvan Barnet • Reliable texts by noted Shakespeare scholars • Text, notes, and commentaries printed in the clearest, most readable format • Recommended readings
William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. Often referred to as England's national poet, Shakespeare's notable works include classic plays such as 'Hamlet,' 'Romeo and Juliet,' 'Macbeth,' and 'Othello,' alongside his celebrated sonnets and narrative poems. His writing style is characterized by its rich use of language, intricate character development, and profound exploration of universal themes such as love, ambition, and the human condition. Shakespeare's influence on literature and the arts remains enduring, with his works being performed and studied worldwide.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Tom Hiddleston is a renowned British actor celebrated for his versatile performances across stage and screen. While best known for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hiddleston has also made significant contributions to literature through his involvement in audiobook narrations and adaptations of classic works, such as "The Red Necklace" by Sally Gardner. A classically trained actor from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), he has performed in numerous Shakespearean productions, bringing timeless literary characters to life. Hiddleston's eloquent voice and deep understanding of literary texts have earned him acclaim in both the acting and literary communities. Beyond his performances, he engages in philanthropic efforts, often supporting educational initiatives that promote literature and the arts.
View CollectionBlake Lively is an accomplished American actress best known for her role as Serena van der Woodsen in the popular television series "Gossip Girl" (2007-2012). While not primarily recognized for contributions to literature, Lively has significantly impacted the entertainment industry with her versatile acting skills in films such as "The Age of Adaline" (2015) and "A Simple Favor" (2018). She has also been an advocate for various social causes, utilizing her platform to raise awareness about child exploitation and the importance of family dynamics. Lively's influence extends beyond acting, as she has ventured into entrepreneurship with her lifestyle brand, Preserve. Her dedication to both her craft and philanthropic efforts has made her a prominent figure in modern pop culture.
View CollectionAbi Tyas Tunggal is a distinguished author known for his impactful contributions to contemporary literature and digital content. He has garnered acclaim for his insightful storytelling and adept handling of complex themes, resonating with a diverse readership. Tunggal's work often explores the intersections of technology, society, and human experience, making him a prominent voice in modern narrative arts. Beyond his literary achievements, he is also recognized for his innovative use of digital platforms to engage with and expand his audience. Tunggal continues to influence the literary landscape with his thought-provoking and accessible writing.
View CollectionAnna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
View CollectionBarack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View CollectionCharlize Theron is a South African-American actress, producer, and philanthropist, known for her roles in a wide range of films, from action blockbusters to critically acclaimed dramas. She gained international recognition for her performance in Monster, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Theron’s versatility as an actress is evident in her work in films such as Mad Max: Fury Road, Atomic Blonde, and Bombshell. Beyond acting, she is a producer through her company, Denver and Delilah Productions, and has been involved in various socially conscious films. Theron is also an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ equality, using her platform to bring attention to issues such as domestic violence and HIV/AIDS through her Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project. In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Theron continues to push boundaries as one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, often taking on physically demanding roles that challenge traditional gender norms.
View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View CollectionJessica Biel is an accomplished actress and producer, best known for her work in television and film rather than literature. Rising to fame with her role as Mary Camden on the long-running family drama "7th Heaven," Biel has since demonstrated her versatility in a variety of genres, from romantic comedies to intense thrillers. Her work behind the scenes as a producer, particularly on the critically acclaimed series "The Sinner," has solidified her status as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. Although not a literary figure, Biel's contributions to storytelling through her acting and production efforts have earned her numerous accolades and a respected place in Hollywood. Her dedication to her craft continues to influence and inspire both audiences and aspiring entertainers alike.
View CollectionShowing 8 of 13 related collections
“This above all: to thine own self be true.”
Four Great Tragedies
By William Shakespeare
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts