Four Tragedies

Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth

William Shakespeare, Ann Barton

$55

Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Penguin
22 July 2025

Literature, Poetry & Criticism; Shakespeare plays; Literary studies: c 1500 to c 1800; Literary studies: plays & playwrights; Shakespeare studies & criticism

Series: Penguin Clothbound Classics

Shakespeare's four greatest tragedies - Macbeth, King Lear, Hamlet and Othello - in a stunning Penguin Clothbound Classics edition

The 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.

By: William Shakespeare
Introduction by: Ann Barton
Imprint: Penguin
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 206mm, Width: 137mm, Spine: 56mm
Weight: 1.094kg
ISBN: 9780241726976
ISBN 10: 0241726972
Series: Penguin Clothbound Classics
Pages: 960
Publication Date: 22 July 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

William Shakespeare was born to John Shakespeare and Mary Arden in late April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon. He wrote about 38 plays (the precise number is uncertain), many of which are regarded as the most exceptional works of drama ever produced, including Romeo and Juliet (1595), Henry V (1599), Hamlet (1601), Othello (1604), King Lear (1606) and Macbeth (1606), as well as a collection of 154 sonnets, which number among the most profound and influential love poetry in English. Shakespeare died in Stratford in 1616.