There may never be an absolutely definitive collection of Shakespeare?s plays, but this may be as close as we ever come. Clear, user-friendly and meticulous, this is the edition we all need. ? David TennantAll of humanity in all of its complexity is contained within these plays, so much so that it?s hard to imagine that Shakespeare will ever be surpassed as the world?s greatest and most beloved playwright. It?s therefore fitting to have this edition that displays his continuing relevance and resonances to his ongoing audience. ? David OyelowoThis is a glorious edition of one of the world?s most important books. It?s the essential reference book for anyone who?s ever been in love, felt jealousy, fear, hatred or desire. All human life is here ? and every home should have one. ? Dame Judi Dench, in praise of the first editionTimely, original, and beautifully conceived, the RSC edition makes Shakespeare?s extraordinary accomplishment more vivid than ever. ? James Shapiro, Professor, Columbia University, in praise of the first edition William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English dramatist, poet, and actor, generally regarded as the greatest playwright of all time.Jonathan Bate is Professor of Environmental Humanities at Arizona State University, USA.Eric Rasmussen is a Professor and Chair of the English department at the University of Nevada, Reno, USA.