The Taming of a Shrew: The 1594 Quarto - Accessible Early Text

In this review of The Taming of a Shrew: The 1594 Quarto, the reviewer recommends the edition for readers who want an accessible, annotated version of an alternative early play connected to Shakespeare. This edition's single biggest sell is its clear, modernized text and the editor's commentary that explains how A Shrew differs from the better-known Taming of the Shrew, especially in its expanded framing device. Readers seeking readability and helpful context will find this edition particularly worthwhile.

Key Features

• Modernized text: The edition presents a readable, updated version of the 1594 quarto that makes the early play approachable for contemporary readers.
• Editorial commentary: Stephen Roy Miller supplies extensive notes that clarify differences between this anonymous A Shrew and Shakespeare's more familiar version.
• Focus on framing story: The edition highlights the larger role of Christopher Sly in A Shrew, which alters the play's dramatic frame and reader expectations.
• Comparative insight: Readers gain a sense of how someone may have shortened or simplified Shakespeare's version, with commentary that discusses those editorial choices.
• Clean layout: The book presents the play and notes in a way that many customers describe as easy to follow and unobtrusive while reading.

Who It's For

This edition is ideal for students, theatre practitioners, and general readers who want a straightforward presentation of an early, alternative text related to Shakespeare's comedy and value clear editorial guidance. The modernized language and focused commentary make it useful for class preparation or actors exploring a less familiar version.

Scholars requiring a heavily documented critical apparatus or a line-by-line diplomatic transcription should look elsewhere; this volume favors readability and interpretive commentary over exhaustive textual footnoting, a point noted by some customers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy readability due to the modernized text, which helps new readers follow the play.
• Useful editorial commentary that explains the notable differences in the framing story of Christopher Sly.
• Good balance between notes and text, with many customers appreciating unobtrusive footnotes and clarity.

Cons

• Some readers note mixed feelings about the introduction and the level of textual apparatus, as it is not as heavily annotated as other critical editions.

Specifications

Title	The Taming of a Shrew: The 1594 Quarto
Editor	Stephen Roy Miller
Associated author	William Shakespeare (related)
Contents	Modernized text of A Shrew with extensive commentary
Distinctive feature	Expanded role of Christopher Sly compared with Shakespeare's play
Series	The New Cambridge Shakespeare: The Early Quartos

Our Verdict

This edition is a strong choice for readers seeking an accessible early-play text and clear editorial context. It delivers readable language and thoughtful commentary that clarify how A Shrew diverges from the familiar play, making it good value for students, actors, and curious readers who prefer clarity over exhaustive scholarly apparatus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a modernized text or a diplomatic facsimile?
This edition provides a modernized text rather than a strict diplomatic transcription, aimed at readability and interpretive notes.

Does the edition explain differences from Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew?
Yes; the commentary highlights key differences, most notably the larger role of Christopher Sly in A Shrew.

Who edited this volume?
The edition is edited and commented on by Stephen Roy Miller as part of The New Cambridge Shakespeare: The Early Quartos series.