Botanical Shakespeare: An Illustrated Compendium of All the Flowers Fruits Herbs Trees Seeds and Grasses Cited by the World's Greatest Playwright
Botanical Shakespeare: An Illustrated Compendium of All the Flowers Fruits Herbs Trees Seeds and Grasses Cited by the World's Greatest Playwright
Author: Gerit Quealy
Desc: A captivating beautifully illustrated one-of-a-kind color compendium of the flowers fruits herbs trees seeds and grasses cited in the works of the world’s greatest playwright William Shakespeare accompanied by their companion quotes from all of his plays and poems. With a foreword by Dame Helen Mirren—the first foreword she has ever contributed. In this striking compilation Shakespeare historian Gerit Quealy and respected Japanese artist Sumié Hasegawa combine their knowledge and skill in this first and only book that examines every plant that appears in the works of Shakespeare. Botanical Shakespeare opens with a brief look at the Bard’s relationship to the plants mentioned in his works—a diversity that illuminates his knowledge of the science of botany as well as the colloquy revealing his unmatched skill for creating metaphorical connections and interweaving substantive philosophy. At the heart of the book are "portraits" of the over 170 flowers fruits grains grasses trees herbs seeds and vegetables that Shakespeare mentions in his plays and poems. Botanical Shakespeare features a gorgeous color illustration of each giving a "face" to the name alongside the specific text in which it appears and the character(s) who utter the lines in which it is mentioned. This fascinating visual compendium also includes a dictionary describing each plant—such as Eglantine a wild rose with a slight prickle cherished for its singular scent superior to any other rose; and the difference between apples and apple-john—along with indices listing the botanical by play/poem by character and genus for easy reference ideal for gardeners and thoughtful birthday gift-giving. This breathtaking incomparable collection of exquisite artwork and companion quotes offers unique depth and insight into Shakespeare and his timeless work through the unusual perspective of the plants themselves.