First Folio
1623 collection of William Shakespeare's plays
The First Folio is the common name for the first collection of William Shakespeare's plays. It was published in 1623. Its title is Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies. The collection was assembled by Shakespeare's theatrical colleagues, John Heminges and Henry Condell.
Four plays are missing: Pericles, Prince of Tyre, The Two Noble Kinsman, and the "lost plays" Cardenio and Love's Labours Won. It is believed about 750 copies were originally published. Two hundred twenty-eight remain in existence. The Folger Library in Washington, D. C. holds the most copies at 82. Copies that arrive at auction realize prices in the millions.
