This work investigates the intricate relationship between genuine artistic creation and the deliberate use of artifice within Shakespeare's plays. Stoll, a noted scholar of Shakespearean drama, draws upon a deep understanding of classical rhetoric and theatrical conventions to dissect how Shakespeare employed dramatic techniques, character archetypes, and plot devices not merely for effect, but as integral components of his artistic vision. The book argues that Shakespeare's mastery lay in his ability to weave these elements into a cohesive and compelling dramatic whole, challenging simplistic notions of pure inspiration versus calculated construction.

Elmer Edgar Stoll's "Art and Artifice in Shakespeare" is recognized as a significant contribution to Shakespearean scholarship, particularly for its detailed examination of dramatic technique. The work is valued for its rigorous analysis of how Shakespeare constructed his plays, focusing on the deliberate use of artifice as a key element of his genius. Scholars often cite Stoll's work for its deep engagement with classical dramatic theory and its application to understanding the mechanics of Shakespeare's stagecraft. The book provides a foundational perspective for appreciating the craft behind the perceived spontaneity of Shakespeare's dramatic output.