John Peck (1)

This text focuses on writers who are English, rather than who write in English, and deliberately concentrates on those most likely to be studied. Its aim is to explore texts' interaction with their historical context; it therefore provides historical details as well as summaries and interpretations of literary texts. It introduces complex ideas in a style that will be easily understood. A well-structured, uncluttered and balanced account of English literary history.

This book is most useful for undergraduate students of English who need a quick refresher course before starting a heavy course section on the Bard. The sections are clear and concise, to the point and will help get to grip with themes, criticism and the most difficult plays of the canon. Highly recommended.