Shakespeare Closely Read is a collection of essays by Shakespearean scholars, all of which were originally papers presented at the 2008 International Shakespeare Conference at Stratford-upon-Avon. Each contains a close reading of Shakespearean or other Elizabethan dramatic texts in an effort to open up new meanings and interpretations. The volume contains an introduction by the editor on the history of close reading and its place in contemporary critical theory and practice.

Contributions by: John Russell Brown, Rob Conkie, Kevin Ewart, Andrew James Hartley, Mariko Ichikawa, John Mucciolo, Lachlan Mackinnon, Stuart Sillars, Steve Sohmer, Boika Sokolova