The second edition of this best-selling guide demystifies Shakespeare's plays and brings critical ideas within a beginner's grasp. The text provides a thorough general introduction to the plays, based on the exciting new approaches shaping the field of Shakespeare studies. Demonstrating how interpretations of Shakespeare are linked to cultural and political contexts, and providing readings of the most frequently studied plays in the light of contemporary critical thought, Shakespeare: The Basics explores Shakespeare's language, the plays as performance texts, the cultural and political contexts of the plays, early modern theatre practice, and new understandings of the major genres. Fully updated to include discussion of criticism and performance in the last five years, a new chapter on Shakespeare on film, and a broader critical approach, this book is the essential resource for all students of Shakespeare.