Woodford (English, New Mexico Highlands University) compiles essays and excerpts from historical, contemporary, and literary sources to help students understand Shakespeare's play, the time in which it was written, and its continued relevance today. Selections include political tracts, legal documents, medical treatises, book and film reviews, and a personal account of life with Alzheimer's disease. Section-ending questions are included. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)