Which Complete Shakespeare Edition to Get?

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Originally Posted by xman

Along with footnotes and forwards, the Riverside includes an appendix to each play which notes the textual differences between earliest printings and why whichever takes precedence.

It is also now the most complete version with the inclusion of Edward III.

This is the edition that I was required as a classically trained actor to study from in school. If it's good enough for me, it's good enough for you!

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I might pick it up soon. It arrived at my bookstore and there's a 40% coupon going on at the moment.

I got the Riverside yesterday. It only cost $71 including tax! I also have the Norton Complete Shakespeare, which was only $8 a while ago miraculously. Still not sure which play I should start with yet.

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Originally Posted by Vladimir777

I got the Riverside yesterday. It only cost $71 including tax! I also have the Norton Complete Shakespeare, which was only $8 a while ago miraculously. Still not sure which play I should start with yet.

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Well done, sir! :nod:

Start with Macbeth, then read Comedy of Errors. They're both very short and easy to read. You'll also have hit a tragedy and a comedy. I think your first history should be Henry V. It's a stand alone powerhouse.

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Originally Posted by xman

Well done, sir! :nod:

Start with Macbeth, then read Comedy of Errors. They're both very short and easy to read. You'll also have hit a tragedy and a comedy. I think your first history should be Henry V. It's a stand alone powerhouse.

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So you don't see any benefit to reading the histories in the chronological order that they should take place in? It won't be confusing, will it? I mean plot-wise. I just got done reading Iliad, so I might read something new like McCarthy first, but then I'll hit up some Shakespeare. I hope he doesn't decimate me too bad.

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Originally Posted by Vladimir777

So you don't see any benefit to reading the histories in the chronological order that they should take place in? It won't be confusing, will it? I mean plot-wise. I just got done reading Iliad, so I might read something new like McCarthy first, but then I'll hit up some Shakespeare. I hope he doesn't decimate me too bad.

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Well when you want to read the Henry IV's and Henry VI's you should read those in order, but otherwise it doesn't really matter. Shakespeare didn't write them in chronological order. Beside, then you'd have to start with King John which is a slightly complex play.