Shakespeare's First Folio: ‘The greatest work in English literature’

400 years after Shakespeare’s death, a rare First Folio untouched for over 200 years
‘Shakespeare’s First Folio is of supreme importance,’ says Meg Ford, International Head of Books and Manuscripts. ‘It is not only the greatest work of English literature — it is probably the greatest work of world literature.’
Untouched for more than 200 years, this rare First Folio — the first complete edition of Shakespeare’s works to be published — was completely unknown to scholars. ‘To bring a copy from the shadows into the light is very special,’ says Ford. ‘It contains 36 plays, 18 of which would be unknown had it not been printed — including Macbeth and The Tempest.’
Here, Ford visits London’s Globe Theatre, built near the site of Shakespeare’s playhouse, and examines notes in the First Folio’s pages that trace its history back to 1623. ‘It is still in beautiful condition, elevating Shakespeare, within seven years of his death, to the status of national poet.’
A complete set of the first four Folios, published in 1623, 1632, 1664 and 1685, are to tour New York and London, where they will be offered in a landmark sale on 25 May.