The Endings of Shakespeare's Comedies

FAIN: FT-13827-78

Gerard J. Gross
Pennsylvania State University (University Park, PA 16802-1503)

To write a critical analysis of Shakespeare's comedies from the point of view of the comic ending. How Shakespeare deal with the competing demands of the traditional ending and of his own interest in three-dimensional characters and serious moral, political and social issues will be examined. The interplay of many factors contributes to a satisfying ending plot, characterization, dialogue, the flow or pace of action music and dancing. The grantee's goal is a comprehensive analysis of the endings of all of Shakespeare's comedies for eventual publication as a book.