Shakespeare Name Dictionary

Entries provide the likely sources for a name; describe historical and mythological backgrounds; examine Shakespeare's presentation of a character or place; and suggest various interpretations of a name. Each entry contains line citations to William Shakespeare: The Complete Works. A guide to the historical, mythological, fictional, and geographic references that appear in Shakespeare's complete plays and poems, covering every name, proper adjective, official title, literary and mystical title, and place name.

"The Dictionary, a valuable addition to the seemingly saturated field of Shakespeare reference, explains it all in engaging, informative articles." -- Wilson Library Bulletin"Davis and Frankforter list "every name, proper adjective, official title, literary and musical title, and place name" appearing in Shakespeare's plays and poems. Packed with information, recommended for all levels." -- Choice"A guide to the historical, mythological, fictional, and geographic references that appear in Shakespeare's complete plays and poems, covering every name, proper adjective, official title, literary and mystical title, and place name. Entries describe historical and mythological allusions, examine the Shakespearean slant given to a person or place, and suggest various interpretations of a name. Historical individuals are described according to what is presently known about their lives. Shakespeare's deviations from historical facts are pointed out, as well as their likely origin. Each entry contains line citations to William Shakespeare: The Complete Works, edited by Wells and Taylor, Oxford U. Press, 1986." -- Book News, Inc.

J. Madison Davis is Professor in the Professional Writing Program and Director of Curriculum and Instruction at the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma. A. Daniel Frankforter is Professor of History at Pennsylvania State University.