Arguing that performance criticism can only be based on the analysis of specific productions, Coursen (Shakespeare, Southern New Hampshire U.) examines specific productions and interpretive issues related to Richard II, Henry V, The Tempest, Hamlet, and other Shakespearean plays; allusions to Shakespeare in film (particularly Romeo and Juliet); and recent film and television productions of As You Like It, The Merchant of Venice, and King Lear, to explain how a script is a text meant to be performed and understand and evaluate the efforts of directors and actors. The book is aimed at those teaching Shakespeare to undergraduates. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)