CHARLES LAMB (1775-1834), an English essayist and playwright, is best-known for his collection of essays Essays of Elia. His older sister, MARY LAMB (1764-1847) was an English writer Despite his unstable mental state, Charles Lamb enjoyed an active social life, with his London salon as a weekly meeting place for the most eminent authors, artists and actors of the era. However, Mary's mental state was more unstable than her brother's, and in 1976, she suffered from a nervous breakdown, after which she was put in the care of her younger brother In 1807, encouraged by their close friend, novelist and philosopher William Godwin, they both collaborated to write the groundbreaking book, Tales from Shakespeare aiming at simplifying 20 of Shakespeare's plays for young readers. The book is one of the world's leading classics today.
From the repertoire of William Shakespeare’s most remarkable romantic comedies and classical tragedies, Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb is a keepsake collection for all lovers of literature. From Portia’s spontaneous wit to Desdemona’s untainted innocence; Cordelia’s candour to Romeo and Juliet’s tragic tale of passionate love, Tales from Shakespeare explores all facets of human personality with utmost sensitivity and great finesse. Charles and Mary Lamb promise their young readers a unique rediscovery of the Bard’s 20 phenomenal plays, bringing them closer to the relevance of the revered author’s prose and verse in the 21st century. The language is simple, the literary flavour is intact and the reading experience is exceptionally soul-satisfying. This collection is a perfect companion for all seasons.
