A guide through four Shakespearean histories, aiding the reader through both the complex political dynamics and early modern argot of each play.

Through four of Shakespeare’s histories, The Regal Throne considers the human condition in its many forms—lovably drunken rogues; dysfunctional kings; cowardly, preening braggarts; and nobly inspiring heroes. Navigating the fluctuating tides of slang and banter in Shakespeare’s early modern English, the book guides the reader from high political intrigue to lowlife bar-room repartee, from self-indulgent regal decline to elevated and inspirational kingly valor, from adolescent delinquency to exaltedly noble redemption. Explaining each scene of all four plays in detail, with copious reference to Shakespeare’s text throughout, The Regal Throne is an invaluable companion for all who set sail on this vibrant Shakespearean voyage into power, politics, and ribaldry.