Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

This is a reference about Shakespeare's plays, characters, productions and themes. It includes over 1500 entries that should help explain all the terms used in Sheakespeare's texts and in their execution.

Reviews provided by Syndetics

Library Journal Review

The compact and helpful reference work consists of 1500 alphabetically arranged entries providing basic information about Shakespeare's plays, poems and main characters as well as brief descriptions of Elizabethan theater, theater companies, and production methods. McConnell, an editor and lexicographer, includes clear definitions and terms commonly used in literary criticism as well as discussions of Elizabethan society and history. The description of each play includes a brief stage history and a synopsis of the plot. A supplement includes a map of London theaters in Shakespeare's time, a chronological list of the Bard's plays, a short chronology of his life and time, and a list of English kings and queens mentioned in the plays. The user-friendly formatting encourages full use of the text. Although it does not provide a list of characters or possible sources for each play, this is similar in coverage and price to The Penguin Shakespeare Dictionary (2000), edited by Sandra Clark, which has 1000 entries. Recommended for all public and academic libraries.-Shana C. Fair, Ohio Univ. Lib., Zanesville. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

CHOICE Review

The further Shakespeare's England recedes in time, the more acutely readers need accurate information in order to appreciate the plays. However universal Shakespeare's characters may be, their environment requires explanation. This dictionary helps explain Shakespeare's world. It is clear in format and easy to use. All the entries were written by McConnell, "an experienced editor and lexicographer who has worked on several English dictionaries." Headwords are printed in boldface, the names of plays in italic, and cross-references to words or phrases defined elsewhere in small capitals. The entries are clearly written and should help students and trivia buffs, as well as Shakespeare aficionados. There are some entertaining black-and-white illustrations--e.g., the Globe, the Bard's portrait, 1575 London. The format makes it easier to use and read than The Penguin Shakespeare Dictionary, ed. by Sandra Clark (CH, Jun'00). All collections. J. J. McShane; Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library

Booklist Review

A handy little ready-reference guide that provides definitions for characters and literary and historical terms, along with synopses of all the plays.