THE PROBLEM OF 'MEASURE FOR MEASURE': A HISTORICAL INVESTIGATION.

London: Vision, 1976. 349 pp, 8vo (8 3/4" H). "This study takes the form of a historical investigation into the play's special difficulties. The first part traces the critical and dramatic history of the play from its first appearance in 1604, and shows by detailed examination how certain of the 'problems' arose, or were invented by those unfamiliar with the conventions and expectations of Shakespeare's own time. The second part of the study considers the play against its contemporary background, linking the new ruler, James I, with a cult character of the period, the Disguised Duke who rules wisely but by stealth (James's self-image). Through this character Shakespeare unfolds the play's often profound and moving ideas of human nature, justice and mercy, and Dr Miles gives particular attention to the structural difficulties which resulted from Shakespeare's attempt to graft this type of material onto what is basically a comedy plot." Appendices: The Criticism - Some Extreme Views; The Proportionate Disposition of the Lines in 'Measure for Measure'; Some Modern Examples of 'the Corrupt Bargain'; Stage History; Two Early Nineteenth-Century Costume Lists for 'Measure for Measure'. Very light browning to edges of textblock. Dust jacket has very light edgewear - mainly at top of spine, small light water stain at bottom of spine, very light browning.. First Edition.. Hard Cover. Very Good/Very Good-.