First published in 1609, Shakespeare's Sonnets are considered some of the most beautiful poems in the English language. Wonderful lines, such as 'Shall I compare thee to a summer's day' or 'To me, fair friend, you can never be old', evoke joy and tenderness, while others express deep passion and desire.

Whether addressed to the Fair Youth, the Rival Poet, or the Dark Lady, these sonnets' universal themes of love, death, and the passage of time hold a meaning for everyone, and it is unsurprising that they have been translated into every major written language.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Arcturus Shakespeare Editions series brings together many of Shakespeare's celebrated plays and poetry, presented with striking contemporary cover designs. Each edition is based on the First Folio and includes an informative introduction, glossary and timeline.