This edition of a famous Elizabethan tragedy has a new commentary on the text, an up-to-date discussion of the play on the stage and a new approach to the authorship question. The play covers social and political issues, and combines farcical elements with a satirical style. The "New Mermaids" series aims to present important play texts in a form that pays particular attention to theatrical elements, and that provides up-to-date critical introductions and commentary notes.