This book opens up Twelfth Night as a play to see and hear, provides useful contextual and source material, and considers the critical and theatrical reception over four centuries. A detailed performance commentary brings to life the many moods of Shakespeare's subtle but robust humour. Students are encouraged to imagine the theatrical challenges of Shakespeare's Illyria afresh for themselves, as well as the thought, creative responses and wonder it has provoked.

Paul Edmondson is Head of Research and Knowledge for The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and a priest in The Church of England.

General Editor's Preface
Series Preface
The Text and Early Performances
Commentary
Cultural Context and Sources
Key Productions and Performances
The Play on Screen
Critical Assessments
Further Reading
Index.