The Year of Lear: Shakespeare in 1606 by James Shapiro delves into a pivotal year in the life of William Shakespeare, focusing on his creative output and historical context. In 1606, Shakespeare wrote three significant plays: King Lear, Macbeth, and Antony and Cleopatra. The author explores how these works reflect the turbulent political and social landscape of early 17th-century England, particularly the reign of King James I and the national mood following events like...