Tales from Shakespeare   By: Mary Lamb (1764-1847)

Tales from Shakespeare by Mary Lamb is an incredible collection that brings to life the famous plays of William Shakespeare in a format suitable for young readers and newcomers to his works. This book takes key scenes from various Shakespearean plays, retells them in simpler language, and presents them in an engaging and accessible way.

What sets Tales from Shakespeare apart is the skillful storytelling of Mary Lamb. Her writing maintains the essence and beauty of Shakespeare's original works while making them more approachable to readers. Lamb's ability to condense complex plots and intricate language into concise and captivating narratives is truly commendable. Whether it's the tragic romance of Romeo and Juliet or the political intrigue of Macbeth, she maintains the spirit and emotional depth of these timeless stories.

Moreover, the book also includes beautiful illustrations by renowned artists that accompany each story, adding another layer of visual appeal. The illustrations capture the mood and essence of each play, bringing the characters and settings to life. They help in creating a vivid and immersive experience for readers, further enhancing their understanding and enjoyment of the tales.

In addition, Tales from Shakespeare captures the diversity of Shakespeare's works, including both comedies and tragedies. This breadth allows readers to explore a wide range of emotions, themes, and characters, giving them a well-rounded introduction to Shakespeare's plays. From the humor of A Midsummer Night's Dream to the weighty themes in Hamlet, the book showcases the richness and depth of Shakespeare’s literary genius.

One of the highlights of this collection is the thoughtful commentary provided by Charles Lamb, brother of Mary Lamb. His notes at the end of each tale offer insights, explanations, and historical context that enrich the reading experience. These commentaries provide readers with a deeper understanding of the plays, their origins, and the societal context in which they were written.

Overall, Tales from Shakespeare is an indispensable book for anyone seeking an introduction to the works of William Shakespeare. Mary Lamb's skill in adapting the plays while preserving their essence, the captivating illustrations, and the insightful commentary make this book an excellent choice for readers of all ages. By making Shakespeare accessible and engaging, this collection succeeds in capturing the magic and enduring appeal of his timeless works.

First Page:

In those tales which have been taken from the Tragedies, the young readers will perceive, when they come to see the source from which these stories are derived, that Shakespeare's own words, with little alteration, recur very frequently in the narrative as well as in the dialogue; but in those made from the Comedies the writers found themselves scarcely ever able to turn his words into the narrative form: therefore it is feared that, in them, dialogue has been made use of too frequently for young people not accustomed to the dramatic form of writing... Continue reading book >>