“Virtue is bold, and goodness never fearful.” —Measure for Measure, act 3, scene 1

Shakespeare’s plays and poems remain as beloved in the twenty-first century as they were in the sixteenth. For all the years between us, the world he inhabited was much like our own—afflicted by political turmoil, divisiveness, war, extreme weather, recurrent plagues, the fouling of natural resources on which everyone relied, and discrimination against people who were different. The bard’s remedy for these troubles was to offer respite and inspiration to his audience through his writing.

In this book, author Kim Bradley teases out the inspirational messages in Shakespeare’s works. Every chapter is a journey through one of his most notable plays, each with actionable life lessons to be learned from his writing. Explore the power of acts of service with Twelfth Night, or the joy of forgiveness with The Tempest. From the importance of hospitality to the benefits of communing with nature, Shakespeare’s wise instruction can help you master the art of living.

“Yes, there is sickness, death, conflict, and division in today’s world,” Bradley writes. “More important, however, there are sunrises, starry skies, friendships, and love. Shakespeare invites us to enjoy the latter while remembering the former and shows how balancing an appreciation for both is key to living the good life.”