Plot Summary

Will in the World

Stephen Greenblatt
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Will in the World

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2004

Book Brief

Stephen Greenblatt

Will in the World

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 16th Century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Stephen Greenblatt's Will in the World explores William Shakespeare's life, examining how his upbringing, relationships, and historical context influenced his writing. Delving into Shakespeare's education, family dynamics, professional ventures, and the societal and religious elements of his time, Greenblatt offers a speculative biography entwined with literary analysis. The book discusses bodily harm, illness, and death.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Nostalgic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

11,378 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stephen Greenblatt's Will in the World is praised for its insightful and engaging exploration of Shakespeare's life and times, blending history and literary analysis effectively. Critics commend Greenblatt's narrative skill and deep research, although some note occasional speculative leaps. Overall, it’s a compelling read for both scholars and enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Will in the World?

A reader who would enjoy Stephen Greenblatt's Will in the World is likely an intellectually curious individual with a keen interest in literary history, particularly the life and times of William Shakespeare. Fans of scholarly yet accessible works like David McCullough's John Adams and Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton would find this book compelling.

4.2

11,378 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

464

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

England • 16th Century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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