Othello

Don Nardo's "Readings on Othello" is the most readable book of essays on this play that I've ever come across. The book is geared toward students, but it's not dumbed-down; instead of a plot summary, you'll find intriguing essays on different themes and issues in Othello. The essays are all written by Shakespeare teachers/scholars, and they are thought-provoking without being too complex to grasp.I especially liked the chapter in the beginning that deals with Othello's origins (the source that Shakespeare used for inspiration), offers background information on the locales and peoples in the play, and gives a brief yet thorough overview of Shakespeare's life. If you are interested in some in-depth study of Othello, or need to write a paper on this play, I highly recommend that you read this book. It will make you see the play from so many different angles, and guide you towards better understanding of what Shakespeare was trying to say.