'… gives excellent coverage of many aspects of the reception, treatment, dramatisation and proliferation of attention given to the Shakespearean corpus in the nineteenth century … it includes a reference guide to nineteenth works about Shakespeare, play publication and an invaluable guide to performances of Shakespeare's plays in nineteenth century London. It contains an extensive bibliography, and Gail Marshall provides a very useful introduction … Anyone seeking to understand the complex nature of the social and intellectual life of the nineteenth century needs to take into account the popularity and esteem afforded to Shakespeare and his dramatic works through all segments of society. This excellent selection of essays assists in addressing that need. Each contribution is well researched, lucid and full of insights concerning the inescapable influence of England's greatest playwright. Collectively, they provide an extremely valuable resource for all readers with an interest in this period.' The Glass

'… the significance of the collection lies in the varied approaches it opens for a scholar new to the territory. …Marshall's authors animate familiar narratives with lively details … But the volume is at its best in resisting received wisdom about 'Victorian Values' …' Daniel Pollack-Pelzner, Victorian Studies