This study explores the range of meanings that Shakespeare's plays can generate and analyses aspects of their literary and dramatic craftsmanship, in terms chosen to be accessible to the non-specialist, even to readers with no previous knowledge or experience of Shakespeare. In particular, it examines Shakespeare's impact through the ages and the varied realizations of his plays in modern theatre. The result of a life-time's involvement with Shakespeare's plays and poems, Wells's study sets out to form both an introduction to the playwright, and a companion for those renewing their acquaintance with his work.