The plant-lore & garden-craft of Shakespeare By: Henry Nicholson Ellacombe (1821-1916) |
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The Plant-Lore & Garden-Craft of Shakespeare by Henry Nicholson Ellacombe delves into the fascinating world of the botanical references found in the iconic works of William Shakespeare. He carefully explores the various herbs, flowers, trees, and plants that Shakespeare incorporated into his plays and sonnets, revealing a remarkable depth of knowledge and appreciation for the natural world.
The author, Ellacombe, showcases his expertise as a renowned horticulturist and Anglican clergyman, giving this book a unique blend of literary analysis and botanical insight. Ellacombe's passion for both Shakespeare and gardening is evident throughout the pages, as he uncovers the origins, properties, and symbolic meanings of countless plants referenced in the playwright's works.
One of the strengths of this book lies in its thoroughness. Ellacombe leaves no stone unturned, researching extensively to provide readers with an abundance of information. From the charming daffodils mentioned in "The Winter's Tale" to the symbolic roses in Romeo and Juliet, this book is a comprehensive guide to the language of flowers within the context of Shakespearean literature.
Moreover, the book is well-structured, making it accessible to both scholars and gardening enthusiasts. Each chapter focuses on a specific plant, providing historical context, cultural significance, and practical gardening advice. Ellacombe's engaging writing style facilitates an enjoyable reading experience, even for those with limited knowledge of either horticulture or Shakespeare.
Beyond its botanical focus, this book also serves as a window into the socio-cultural aspects of the Elizabethan era. Ellacombe adroitly explores how plants took on a much larger role in people's lives during that time, whether for simple sustenance, medicinal purposes, or even superstitious beliefs. This additional layer of insight makes the book more than just a reference guide; it becomes a voyage through time and culture.
If there is one shortcoming of the book, it is that some readers may find the abundance of information overwhelming. While it is impressive, it occasionally detracts from the book's fluidity. However, Ellacombe's passion and expertise shine through, allowing readers to appreciate his extensive research, even if they do not memorize every plant fact presented.
Ultimately, The Plant-Lore & Garden-Craft of Shakespeare is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the works of Shakespeare, gardening, or simply expanding their knowledge of plants. Ellacombe's ability to intertwine literature and horticulture is commendable, and his attention to detail ensures that readers will come away with a newfound appreciation for the natural world and its relevance in both Shakespeare's time and our own. There are diacritic accents in the original. In this text, they are represented as follows: [=a] = "a" with a macron [=e] = "e" with a macron [=i] = "i" with a macron [=o] = "o" with a macron [=u] = "u" with a macron [=w] = "w" with a macron THE PLANT LORE AND GARDEN CRAFT OF SHAKESPEARE. PRESS NOTICES OF FIRST EDITION. "It would be hard to name a better commonplace book for summer lawns. . . . The lover of poetry, the lover of gardening, and the lover of quaint, out of the way knowledge will each find something to please him. . . . It is a delightful example of gardening literature." Pall Mall Gazette. "Mr. Ellacombe, with a double enthusiasm for Shakespeare and for his garden, has produced a very readable and graceful volume on the Plant Lore of Shakespeare." Saturday Review. "Mr... Continue reading book >>
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