This book is really helpful for people who are studying The Duchess of Malfi at A level especially for the synoptic link, as it gives brief links with other Shakespearean revenge tragedies. It also gives important historical, social and cultural conditions of the Jacobean period and major ideas and themes of the play. Beside each poem are little boxes filled with website addresses, contextual ideas and trigger questions, all which help you to further the depth of your study on the play. It explains what happens in each scene throughout the play in close analytical detail. I would recommend this guide to anyone, a great book if you want a top grade!