Compiled by one of the best-known authorities on the Bard's works, this dictionary offers up-to-date information on all aspects of Shakespeare in his own time and on his impact and influence on later ages. It includes entries on the plays and the major characters, on Shakespeare's life and his contemporaries ... more »

Almost 7,000 names We all have a first name, but how many of us really know its origin and history? This comprehensive dictionary provides a fascinating collection of linguistic, historical, and associated information about some 7,000 names, making it ideal reference for linguists and family historians ... more »

The Oxford Dictionary of Twentieth Century Quotations is a collection of over 5,000 quotations, representing key voices and events of the last 100 years and the beginnings of the new century. Coverage ranges from the worlds of art, literature, science, and politics to popular culture, and material is ... more »

Focusing exclusively on real people, this is a dictionary of ancient biography, covering Greek and Roman history and politics, literature, philosophy, science, and art. Shorter entries provide lucid factual accounts, while the longer entries are short essays covering major historical and cultural themes ... more »

Over 1,500 entries Written by a team of leading political scientists, sociologists, philosophers, and political economists, this is the most authoritative and up-to-date dictionary of politics available. Ranging from John Adams and the Young Hegelians to Additional Member System and zero-sum game, this ... more »

Over 1,300 entries From Archimedes and Copernicus to Stephen Hawking and Stephen Jay Gould, this is the most authoritative and up-to-date biographical dictionary of scientists currently available. Spanning over 2,500 years, it covers all areas of science, from physics and astronomy to medicine and ecology ... more »

This dictionary enables users to evaluate the claims made about different diets and types of exercise. It covers all matters relating to diet and exercise including diet methods, food supplements, sex and exercise, sports injuries, anatomy, energy-related terms, exercises for improving strength, flexibility ... more »

Over 1,800 entries From Baroque to Postmodernism, batik to mezzotint, and canvas to porcelain, the Concise Oxford Dictionary of Art Terms provides succinct and accessible explanations of over 1,800 terms used in the wide variety of visual media that makes up the art world. more »

Over 2,500 entries Containing over 2,500 operatic characters, this guide gives plot synopses for over 250 operas and operettas, and details full information on each operatic role, including its creator and notable performers. Well-known personalities contribute articles on favourite roles, for example ... more »

Over 2,500 entries This dictionary provides in-depth coverage of the major historical figures and events from 1900 to the present day. Extensive surveys of every country are included with detailed analytical entries covering political and military leaders, political parties, international organizations ... more »

This is the most authoritative and up-to-date dictionary of British place-names available in paperback. From Abbas Combe to Zennor, it gives the meaning and origin of over 12,000 place-names , tracing their development from earliest times to the present day. Essential reference for the tourist or local ... more »