Troilus and Cressida

Although one of his lesser known plays Shakespeares considerable abilities as a playwright are readily apparent in Troilus and Cressida. This historical and tragic problem play thought to be inspired by Chaucer Homer and some of Shakespeares history-recording contemporaries is initially a tale of a man and woman in love during the Trojan War. When Cressida is given to the Greeks in exchange for a prisoner of war Troilus is determined to rescue her. When he does find her however Troilus believes Cressida has betrayed him. On a larger scale this play also deals with the political battle being waged by Agamemnon of the Greeks against Priam of the Trojans. Much of the plot centers on war councils and battles in which Hector and Achilles play a part. Ultimately Shakespeares play is memorable for its love and betrayal questioning of hierarchy and honor morality in the face of reality and cynical disillusionment. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper is annotated by Henry N. Hudson and includes an introduction by Charles Harold Herford.