Shakespeare'S Sonnets (9780199678242)

Shakespeare's Sonnets are among the most fascinating poems in the English language. They are central to an understanding of his life and work as both poet and poetic dramatist. Yet many myths and superstitions have arisen around them. To whom were they addressed? Are all the poems in the 'young man sequence addressed to the same person? How valid is the quest for the so-called 'dark lady? How may we begin to understand the sexuality of the sonnets? Do they really form a coherent sequence? When were they written? How might they relate to other poetry of the period, as well as to Shakespeare's plays? This book challenges assumptions and encourages fresh readings of these dazzling and often difficult poems. Edmondson and Wells consider the sonnets both as individual works and in relation to each other. An original feature of the book is its survey of the sonnets' reputation, their appropriation by other creative writers, and their status and potential as texts to be performed. Attractively and engagingly written, and ideal for students, Shakespeare's Sonnets will be of interest to all readers of Shakespeare and poetry.