Four Tragedies
Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth
(Author) William ShakespeareThe theme of the great Shakespearean tragedies is a hero's fall from grace due to a fatal character flaw. Whether it is the ruthless ambition of Macbeth or the folly of Lear, the irresolution of Hamlet or the suspicion of Othello, the cause of the tragedy - even when it is the murder of a king - is trifling compared to the calamity that it unleashes. Despite their flawed natures, however, the tragic protagonists all have a nobility that emphasizes the greatness of humanity. From this paradox the audience is brought to a greater understanding of - and sympathy with - suffering. The four tragedies in this collection are accompanied by notes and an introduction to each text.
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers in the English language. He is known for his numerous plays and sonnets, which have had a profound impact on literature and theater. Some of his most notable works include "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Othello." Shakespeare's writing is characterized by his use of intricate language, complex characters, and universal themes such as love, jealousy, power, and ambition. His works have been translated into every major language and are performed around the world to this day. Shakespeare's influence on literature, drama, and the English language is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to endure centuries after his death. His most famous work is arguably "Romeo and Juliet," a tragic love story that has become a timeless classic.