Shakespeare Lexicon, Vol. 1

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 1 covers A through L, from "a: the first letter of the alphabet" to "Lysimachus," a proper name. 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, Drama, Language

772 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1874

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

[L J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This and Volume 2 were quite the tool for my professional days of acting Shakespeare. With it and a little work you can make clear the meaning of some of the most obtuse sentences that the bard has written and even the ones that seem simply straightforward.

[Lisa Bettini]

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

[Jeff Alan-Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Indispensible for any actor or student of Shakespeare.

[Gaenolee]

A need-to-have for every Shakespeare student. Every single word is explained and its origin discussed.

[Edward · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must for performance.