Shakespeare Lexicon, Vol. 2

by Alexander Schmidt

Still often used today, German schoolmaster and philologist ALEXANDER SCHMIDT's (1816-1887) Shakespeare Lexicon is the source for elucidating the sometimes cryptic language of Shakespeare and tracking down quotations. Volume 2 covers M through Z, from "Mab: the queen of the fairies" to "Zounds: an oath contracted from God's wounds," and features numerous appendices and supplements on grammar and usage. Every word from every play and poem is cataloged, referenced, and defined in this exhaustive two-volume work, the result of arduous research and stalwart dedication. Serious scholars and zealous fans will find the Lexicon the ultimate guide to reading and decoding the Bard.

Genres: Shakespeare, Reference, Nonfiction, Theatre, Language

740 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1875

About the author

Alexander Schmidt (1816–1887) was a German schoolmaster and philologist best known for his Shakespeare-Lexicon, a reference work that cataloged and defined the vocabulary, phrases, and constructions in Shakespeare’s plays and poems. First published in 1874–75, it became a standard tool for Shakespeare scholarship and was later revised and expanded by Gregor Sarrazin in a 1902 edition.

Reviews

[Jeff Alan-Lee]

Fascinating. Every actor should have this in their library. It makes the work come alive for actors. Get both dictionaries! I always start with this dictionary before working on Shakespeare. I've helped young actors get into major colleges using this as a prep. It is THE key into understanding and the first step to mastering the gorgeous work of Shakespeare.

[Lisa Bettini]

A MUST if you read Shakespeare or perform it. Variable meanings and intents with every single word the Bard ever wrote. Indispensable!