The work "The Two Noble Kinsmen", considered by Thomas de Quincey as 'perhaps the most extraordinary work in the language', is written in Athens and co-authored by Shakespeare in collaboration with John Fletcher. This edition of Penguin Shakespeare is edited by N. W. Bawcutt with an introduction by Peter Swaab.

The story follows Theseus, Duke of Athens, who, when he learns that the lord of Thebes has killed three noble kings, vows to take revenge. After Athens' victory over the city of Thebes, Theseus is impressed by the bravery of two Theban cousins and orders his surgeons to take care of them. Soon, the lifelong friendship of the cousins is threatened, as both are overwhelmed by love for the duke's beautiful sister.

This book contains a general introduction to Shakespeare's life and the Elizabethan theatre, a separate introduction to the play, a chronology, suggestions for further reading, an essay discussing production choices both on stage and on screen, and a commentary.

Pages: 304, Dimensions: 13x13cm