In this study, Larsen (theatre and media arts, Brigham Young U.) examines the cultural influences of the Monty Python troupe, comparing and contrasting their work with that of William Shakespeare. The volume begins with a discussion of Shakespeare's status as England's National Poet and the enshrinement of Python as cultural hero. Larsen also analyzes Shakespeare's and Python's use (and abuse) of historical material, as well as such topics as their casting choices and the ways in which they used satire to comment on society. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)