Henry the Fourth Audiobook (Free)

This updated edition offers a strongly theatrical perspective over the origins of Shakespeare’s The First Element of King Henry IV and the annals of its interpretation. The introduction clarifies the play’s astonishing, de-centred dramatic framework, questioning the dominant assumption the drama focuses on the training of Prince Hal. It calls attention to the consequences of civil war upon a broad range of human relationships. Falstaff’s unstable vitality can be explored, as well as important contemporary beliefs of honour, companionship, festivity and reformation. Considerable lexical glosses of obscure, ambiguous or archaic meanings make the wealthy wordplay accessible. The notes provide a thorough commentary on Shakespeare’s change of his resources (particularly Holinshed’s Chronicles) and suggest alternate stagings. This updated edition contains a new introductory section by Katharine A. Craik, which represents latest stage, film and important interpretations, and an up to date reading list.