Henry VI, Part I

Set during the tumultuous War of the Roses, the play chronicles the rise of Henry VI to the throne after his father's death. As England's grip on France weakens, tensions escalate between the rival Houses of York and Somerset, culminating in Lord Talbot's defeat at the hands of Joan of Arc. The narrative explores themes of political strife and national identity, reflecting the era's struggles and aspirations. This edition includes a new biography of Shakespeare, enhancing the reader's understanding of the playwright's context.