Macbeth (The New Cambridge Shakespeare)

by William Shakespeare (Author), William Shakespeare (Author), A. R. Braunmuller (Editor)

• Used

  Paperback
  1997

  $3.80

  Lively, instructive access to Shakespeare's rich and complex works. This is the most extensively annotated edition of Macbeth currently available, offering a thorough reconsideration of one of Shakespeare's most popular plays. A full and accessible introduction studies the immediate theatrical and political contexts of Macbeth's composition, especially the Gunpowder Plot and the contemporary account of an early performance at the Globe. It treats such celebrated issues as whether the Witches compel Macbeth to murder; whether Lady Macbeth is herself a witch; whether Banquo is Macbeth's accomplice in crime and what criticism is levelled against Macduff. An extensive, well-illustrated account of the play in performance examines several cinematic versions, such as those by Kurosawa and Roman Polanski, and other dramatic adaptations. Several possible new sources are suggested, and the presence of Thomas Middleton's writing in the play is proposed. Appendixes contain additional text and accompanying music.

• Used

  Paperback
  1987

  $3.25

• Used

  Hardcover
  1998

  $5.49

• New

  Paperback
  1984

  $19.86

  The full comprehension of the plays is gained from the line-by-line modern English translation given on facing pages. Understanding of the plays is increased as pupils take part in the variety of related activities included in each book. The significance of the plays is reinforced by sections discussing Shakespeare's life, works and theatre. Pupils are encouraged to understand the language, characters, structure and themes of the plays by completion of practical exercises.