Fathers and Sons in Shakespeare: The Debt Never Promised

‘A solid contribution to recent studies on the early modern family and masculinities, one that in its broad-ranging clarity would enhance undergraduate and graduate libraries.’ Margaret L. Mikesell, Renaissance Quarterly: vol 64:01:2011

'Fred B. Tromly's Fathers and Sons in Shakespeare is an admirably comprehensive critical reading of this central theme as Shakespeare developed it over the course of his dramatic career. Combining careful historical documentation with psychologically discriminating close readings of language and dramatic action, Tromly gives us an unprecedented understanding of the tense Oedipal dynamics that inform the plays. Tromly's lucid and jargon-free style will make this book accessible to students and scholars alike. This is a fine, important addition to contemporary Shakespearean criticism.' Murray Schwartz, Professor of Literature, Emerson College

'This is a strong, well-informed, original reading of what is a major pattern running through Shakespeare's plays, from early to late. The readings are perceptive and persuasive, and I learned a great deal from what Fred B. Tromly has to say about fathers and sons in Shakespeare.' David Lee Miller, Carolina Distinguished Professor of English and Comparative Literature, University of South Carolina