OXFORD'S LETTERS The Letters of Edward de Vere and The 17th Earl of Oxford

An otherwise minor figure in the Elizabethan Court, Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, has lately been put forward as the true author of Shakespeare's works. This sampling from his correspondence may not cast light on that claim but does illuminate the courtier's life and times. In pleasant, well-modulated tones, Joan Walker bridges the selections with brief notes that place the letters in context. Derek Jacobi reads in his gentle, mellifluous style in a manner that makes the sense of the letters clearer than they would appear on the printed page. Nonetheless, the listener needs some background in period history, syntax, and vocabulary to fully understand de Vere's writings. Despite the fine efforts of the narrators, one suspects that it's serious inquirers who will find this volume the most worthwhile. Y.R. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]