Shakespeare. By Raymond Macdonald Alden. (Allen and Unwin. 10s. 6d.)
This volume, written by the Professor of English in Stanford University, is one of an American series entitled " Master Spirits of Literature," and it is only fair to say that it is a much better book than such ominous auspices would lead one to imagine. It is a long, thorough, sensible, though not specially acute, study of Shakespeare's life'and work. Professor Alden, who has clearly an excellent knowledge of Shake- spearean criticism, tries to steer a middle course between the absolute and the historical positions, a policy that will win the suffrages of most of his readers. He attempts always to distinguish between the purely Elizabethan elements and the more universal elements in the poet's work, tries to preserve the balance, and deals roundly with extreme interpretations and nonsensical theories. It is a safe and useful study, worth putting into the hands of any student who is just embarking upon a Shakespearean course. Nor will it waste the general reader's time, though he could easily find more stimulating criticism.
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