Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(6) Tree Line

Listen, Shmooperinos. Merry Wives is a crowd favorite for a reason. It's fun, light-hearted, and pretty easy to follow… once you get used to the fact that Shakespeare's got a thing for multiple plots with twists and turns. Here's what you should remember in order to prevent yourself from going crazy:

Main plot: Falstaff tries to get busy with the housewives but gets punk'd. Repeatedly.

Subplot 1: Three suitors try to get with Anne Page and two of them get punk'd. Also, Anne's parents get punk'd when she elopes with Fenton.

Subplot 2: The Host of the Garter Inn punks Caius and Evans, who turn around and try to punk him back.

Are you noticing a pattern here? Go to "Themes: Lies and Deceit" and we'll tell you all about it. And don't worry. Our detailed "Summary" is here to help.