When the wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handsaw” (Edwards 2.2.347–2.2.348)? What is the significance of these directions? In Love's Labour's Lost, what is the significance of the contrast between the inquiring empiricism of Berowne and the pedantic style of Holofernes?
Peter Usher contends that Shakespeare's writing must be interpreted within the emerging scientific zeitgeist of the Elizabethan period and that at least some of his works are an allegorical presentation of the conflict between old and newly emerging ideas. He presents his position convincingly. Regardless of any bias readers may have in interpreting Shakespeare's plays, they will find much to hold their interest.
—Michael K. Gainer
Emeritus Professor of Physics
St. Vincent College
Latrobe, Pennsylvania