KING HENRY IV Part 1 - New Cambridge Shakespeare

An international team of scholars offers: - Modernised, easily accessible texts - Ample commentary and introductions - Attention to the theatrical qualities of each play and its stage history - Informative illustrations The First Part of King Henry IV This edition offers a strongly theatrical perspective on the origins of The First Part of King Henry IV and the history of its interpretation. The introduction clarifies the play's surprising, de-centred dramatic structure, questioning the dominant assumption that the drama focuses on the education of Prince Hal. It calls attention to the effects of civil war upon a broad range of relationships. Falstaff's unpredictable vitality is explored, together with important contemporary values of honour, friendship, festivity and reformation. This updated edition includes a new introductory section by Katherine A. Craik which describes recent stage, film and critical interpretations.