Shakespeare and Classical Antiquity is a comprehensive book written by Paul Stapfer that explores the influence of Greek and Latin antiquity on the works of William Shakespeare. The book examines how Shakespeare incorporated classical themes, characters, and ideas into his plays, and how he adapted them to suit his own artistic vision. The book is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the influence of Greek and Roman mythology on Shakespeare's plays. Stapfer analyzes how Shakespeare drew on classical myths and legends to create his own stories, and how he used classical figures like Julius Caesar and Cleopatra to explore themes of power, ambition, and love. The second part of the book looks at how Shakespeare used classical history and philosophy in his plays. Stapfer examines how Shakespeare drew on the works of ancient historians like Plutarch to create his historical plays, and how he used classical philosophy to explore themes of morality, justice, and the human c