The purpose of this edition is to help the student to read and understand Shakespeare's play with as much as easy as possible. With this aim in mind the notes that accompany the text concentrate on the actual language of the play, translating difficult passage into modern English and explaining images and allusions. ( It is assumed, however, that the reader already is -- or soon will be while reading the play -- familiar with such well-known forms as the archaic second person singular, 'thou', 'thee', 'thy', 'thine', instead of 'you', 'your', 'yours', and with old forms of verb endings, such as the -st ending of verdsin the second person singular.) The introductory section explains the plot of the play and looks at such topics as characterisation and imagery, and also provides useful background information about Shakespeare's life and times and the Elizabethan theatre. Throughout, the aim has been to enable students to gain a quick understanding of the play and an appreciation of Shakespeare's skill in presenting a story that explores complex loyalties and relationships.