Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book enhances the understanding of Shakespeare's dramaturgy for literary scholars and students, as well as all those involved in producing, seeing, or reading Shakespeare's plays. It begins with an exploration of the circumstances that make it possible to consider Armin to be Shakespeare's musical collaborator. Early modern theater audiences expected to receive specific information from music, and authors believed that music could convey and/or create desired emotional or psychological states, including courage, lust, sadness, or love. The book details how music portrays these states and clarifies editing and analysis methodologies. It contains a detailed exploration of seventeen songs from Shakespeare's plays, viewed first of all from the perspective of Armin's possible involvement. The book addresses the long-standing debate regarding whether the singing of both of the tragic heroines signifies empowerment or victimhood.