This chapter explores the relationship between three stretches of text in which a hunt is described: the exchange between Tamora and Aaron in Titus Andronicus (2.3.10–50); several stanzas of Venus and Adonis (830–99); and Thomas Arden’s narrative of his nightmare in Arden of Faversham, in which he is transformed from a by-stander to the prey (6.6–34). The first two of these passages are indubitably by Shakespeare, and reasons are given for concluding that all three, which share complexes of words and images, are by a single author. The order in which the works were composed is discussed. These and samples from other early plays – including a further evocation of hunted deer in 1 Henry VI, 4.2 ߝ are analysed to illustrate distinctive aspects of Shakespeare’s early poetic style, such as the way that word-play generates imagery, giving his verse its vivid particularity.