n nThe most comprehensive sourcebook of Shakespeares monologues ever available in one volume. n nA detailed guide to approaching Shakespearean text, Speak the Speech contains everything an actor needs to select and prepare a Shakespeare monologue for classwork, auditions, or performance. n nIncluded herein are over 150 monologues. Each one is placed in context with a brief introduction, is carefully punctuated in the manner that best illustrates its meaning, and is painstakingly and thoroughly annotated. Each is also accompanied by commentary that will spark the actors imagination by exploring how the interrelationship of meter and the choice of words and sounds yields clues to character and performance. And throughout the book sidebars relate historical, topical, technical, and other useful and entertaining information relevant to the text. In addition, the authors include an overview of poetic and rhetorical elements, brief synopses of all the plays, and a comprehensive index along with other guidelines that will help readers locate the perfect monologue for their needs. n nMore than just an actors toolkit, Speak the Speech is also an entertaining resource that will help demystify Shakespeares language for the student and theater lover alike.n