From the Royal Shakespeare Company – a modern, definitive edition of Shakespeare's most unusual and provocative histories. With an expert introduction by Sir Jonathan Bate, this unique edition presents a historical overview of King John and Henry VIII in performance, takes a detailed look at specific productions, and recommends film versions. Included in this edition are interviews with three leading directors – Gregory Doran, Josie Rourke and Gregory Thompson – providing an illuminating insight into the extraordinary variety of interpretations that are possible. This edition also includes an essay on Shakespeare’s career and Elizabethan theatre, and enables the reader to understand the play as it was originally intended – as living theatre to be enjoyed and performed.

Features:
An exemplary introduction to King John and Henry VIII by award-winning scholar Sir Jonathan Bate
The play - with clear and authoritative explanatory notes on each page
A helpful scene-by-scene analysis and key facts about the play
A rich exploration of approaches to staging the play
Photographs of classic or unusual performances illustrate different interpretations open to actors or directors
Interviews with three leading directors - Gregory Doran, Josie Rourke and Gregory Thompson
An introduction to Shakespeare's career and the Elizabethan theatre
A key facts 'box' summarizing the plot, major roles, language and sources
A clear, single-column page design
Recommendations for further reading on key critical approaches and the play in performance, along with recommended viewing