Shakespeare on the Record: Researching an Early Modern Life

Hannah Leah Crummé

Language: English

Publisher: Bloomsbury Academic

Published: Jan 23, 2019

Description:

Shakespeare on Record is a unique guide to major Shakespeare discoveries and the archival insight that made them possible. With contributions from experts at The National Archives, the Folger Shakespeare Library and leading universities, the book explores and explains the bureaucratic processes and governmental practices that shaped life and records in Renaissance England – making it a key resource for both Shakespeare scholars and researchers of early modern lives. Chapters examine key documents concerning property, the law, coats of arms and investments, which relate to Shakespeare's lives in both Stratford and London. Several of The National Archives' collection of over 120 documents which illuminate Shakespeare's life are profiled here for the first time. Richly illustrated throughout, this is a key resource for both Shakespeare scholars and researchers of early modern lives.

Review

If you know anyone who still believes the myth that there is no evidence of Shakespeare's life, give them this book for Christmas! It is a superb account of the archival process, paying homage to those who have immersed themselves in the records and showcasing compelling new findings.

About the Author

Hannah Leah Crummé is Head of Special Collections and College Archivist at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon.