This is an auction for a letterpress edition of Shakespeare's TWELFTH NIGHT.

This is a large format Folio Society hardback, in its original solander box, plus a commentary volume (still in its shrink wrap).

This book is currently on sale through the Folio Society in Australia for A$575 (NZ$619).

"In Tudor times, twelfth night was the feast of 'misrule' marking the end of Christmas festivities, where the natural order was often turned topsy-turvy. Shakespeare's plot includes a servant seeking to marry his mistress, women dressed as men and attendant confusions and mistakes - all favourite examples that hark all the way back to the Roman feast of Saturnalia. Shakespeare may well have written the play for a court entertainment performed in 1601 (finding his Duke's name from the Duke Orsini who had visited court that year). Many commentators believe that his portrait of the kill-joy Malvolio was intended to poke fun at the Puritans who disapproved of twelfth night festivities - and, of course, of the theatre itself. Set against Malvolio are the excesses of Sir Toby Belch, and yet his drunkenness is sympathetically viewed: 'Dost think because thou art virtuous there shall be no more cakes and ale?' From the witty banter of Sir Toby and Maria, the wry commentary of Feste and the foolishness of Sir Andrew to the emotionally charged moment of the discovery of the twins, this is a play whose range and humour have delighted audiences for centuries and which remains irresistibly fresh today."

Ultra-large format * Folio Society hardback.

• 35.5cms x 25.5cms.

New condition.

The cost of shipping is:

• North Island - $8.95 (tracked mail)
• North Island rural delivery (RD) $11.95
• South Island - $13.95 (tracked mail)
• South Island rural delivery (RD) $16.95

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston ?North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.