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

Tales from Shakespeare, written by Mary Lamb, is a beautifully crafted compilation of Shakespeare's most beloved plays. With a skillful blend of simplicity and richness, Lamb brings Shakespeare's timeless stories to life in an accessible manner for readers of all ages.

The book is divided into twenty chapters, each devoted to a different play. From Romeo and Juliet to Macbeth, Lamb skillfully condenses the intricate plots, complex characters, and poignant themes of Shakespeare's works into captivating narratives. By focusing on the essence of each story, she manages to retain the essence of Shakespeare's genius while making it approachable for those unfamiliar with his original plays.

One remarkable aspect of this book is Lamb's ability to maintain the beauty of Shakespeare's language, albeit in a simplified form. She carefully selects key quotes and soliloquies that capture the essence of the characters and their dilemmas, effectively conveying their emotions and motivations. At the same time, Lamb avoids overwhelming the reader with archaic language, ensuring that the narratives flow smoothly and remain accessible.

In addition to the captivating storytelling, the book is enhanced by vivid illustrations that bring the characters and settings to life. The illustrations, subtly blending traditional and contemporary elements, perfectly complement Lamb's retelling, providing visual aids and stimulating the reader's imagination.

Furthermore, Tales from Shakespeare provides valuable context and insights into the historical and cultural background of each play, making it an excellent resource for those studying Shakespeare or seeking a deeper understanding of his works. Lamb's concise yet comprehensive explanations help bridge the gap between Shakespeare's era and our own, fostering an appreciation for the plays' enduring relevance.

While the book serves as an excellent introduction to Shakespeare's plays, even those familiar with his works will find value in Lamb's retelling. Her talent lies in presenting these iconic plays in a fresh light, offering readers a chance to rediscover them from a different perspective. Each narrative encapsulates the essence of the original play, allowing readers to experience the depth and beauty of Shakespeare's masterpieces once again.

Tales from Shakespeare by Mary Lamb is a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespeare's plays, providing a captivating introduction or refreshing revisit to his timeless stories. Lamb's artful storytelling, combined with her extensive knowledge and respect for the source material, makes this book a cherished addition to any literary collection.

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. But this fault, if it be a fault, has been caused by an earnest wish to give as much of Shakespeare's own words as possible: and if the 'He said,' and 'She said,' the question and the reply, should sometimes seem tedious to their young ears, they must pardon it, because it was the only way in which could be given to them a few hints and little foretastes of the great pleasure which awaits them in their elder years, when they come to the rich treasures from which these small and valueless coins are extracted; pretending to no other merit than as faint and imperfect stamps of Shakespeare's matchless image... Continue reading book >>