One of Shakespeare's final, fantastic works, "Cymbeline" examines human love and art through the thrilling wonders of the Renaissance theatrical scene. This Penguin Shakespeare edition is curated with an introduction by John Pitcher.

"Fear no more the heat o' the sun, Nor the furious winter's rages."

The King of Britain, angered by his daughter's disobedience in marrying against his wish, banishes his new son-in-law. After escaping to Rome, the banished husband makes an irrational bet with a malevolent man he meets there - wagering on the fidelity of his abandoned wife. Combining the authority and terror of the court, comedy, and melodrama, "Cymbeline" is a poignant portrayal of two young lovers separated by deceit and self-doubt.

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 analyzing performance choices both on stage and on screen, and a commentary.