Macbeth | Simple Shakespeare Series

By Jeanette Vigon

In an era where the timeless narratives of Shakespeare might seem daunting, Jeanette Vigon extends a welcoming hand through her adaptation of "Macbeth" in the Simple Shakespeare series. Her modern retelling breathes vitality into the dark and ambitious journey of Macbeth, making the complex story of power, guilt, and fate accessible and engaging for today's readers. Vigon captures the original play's intensity and moral conflicts, while translating it into a language that resonates with the contemporary audience.

Ideal for newcomers to Shakespeare as well as devoted fans seeking a fresh take, this rendition of "Macbeth" explores the intricate relationships and psychological depths of its characters against a backdrop that feels strikingly relevant. Vigon skillfully unravels the themes of ambition, moral corruption, and the psychological turmoil of its protagonist, ensuring the story's enduring themes reach a new generation with undiminished impact.

This adaptation is a must-have for anyone eager to explore the dramatic landscape of one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies, without the hurdle of early modern English. It serves as a perfect resource for students encountering Shakespeare for the first time and educators in search of engaging literature for their curriculum. Jeanette Vigon’s "Macbeth" offers a captivating and insightful read that successfully narrows the centuries-old gap between the audience and Shakespeare’s work.

Rediscover "Macbeth" in this engaging retelling, where medieval Scotland's fog-laden highlands are painted with dialogues that speak to our current era. Delve into the storied tale of Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, and the witches, reimagined through Vigon’s adept storytelling. Dive into a narrative where each line draws you closer to the unraveling destiny of characters who have never seemed more alive or relatable.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jeanette Vigon
• Release date: Apr 10, 2024
• ISBN: 9791223034187

Book preview

INTRODUCTION

In this contemporary adaptation of Macbeth, William Shakespeare's intense drama of ambition, guilt, and fate is reimagined for today's audience, capturing the timeless essence of the original while situating it firmly in the present.

Set against the backdrop of a modern-day kingdom, the story kicks off with the valiant warrior Macbeth, who, influenced by a prophecy from three mysterious figures and spurred on by his ambitious wife, Lady Macbeth, embarks on a bloody quest for power. The once-loyal thane's descent into murder and madness begins with the assassination of King Duncan, setting off a chain of events that lead to paranoia, tyranny, and more bloodshed.

As Macbeth strives to secure his grip on the throne, he is consumed by guilt and fear, while Lady Macbeth, equally complicit in the quest for power, finds herself overwhelmed by the weight of their actions. The narrative delves deep into themes of ambition, the psychological repercussions of unchecked desire, and the inevitable consequences that come from disturbing the natural order of things.

This modern rendition of Macbeth translates Shakespeare’s vivid, poetic language into today's vernacular, making it accessible and relatable while preserving the depth and complexity of the original characters and themes. With a keen emphasis on the psychological turmoil experienced by Macbeth and his lady, the adaptation presents a riveting exploration of the dark side of ambition and the heavy cost of seeking power at any price.

As the tragedy unfolds, the age-old questions of fate versus free will, the corrupting power of unchecked ambition, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve their desires resonate with contemporary viewers. This version invites the audience to contemplate the moral implications of their own ambitions and the shadows that lurk within, demonstrating that Macbeth remains as compelling and insightful today as it was over four centuries ago.

ACT I

SCENE 1

In a desolate, stormy landscape, lit intermittently by flashes of lightning, three witches appeared as if conjured by the chaos itself.

Let's meet again once the storm quiets, the battle's outcome is clear, victorious or not, the first witch proposed, her voice cutting through the roar of thunder.

When exactly? the second inquired, eager for specifics.

Before the sun sets, confirmed the third, the agreement binding them to a time.

And where shall we convene? the curiosity of the first witch piqued further.

On the heath, the second witch replied, the location now set.

It's there we'll encounter Macbeth, the third witch added, a hint of anticipation in her tone for the meeting that was to come.

Suddenly, each witch seemed alerted by calls only they could hear. I'm coming, the first witch announced, responding to an unseen summon.

The paddock beckons, declared the second, similarly called away.

Shortly, the third witch stated, acknowledging her own signal to depart.

Together, as they prepared to leave, they chanted a mantra that seemed to echo the paradox of their existence: What's fair is foul, and what's foul is fair. Let's hover through the mist and the filthy air.

With that, they vanished into the thickening fog, leaving the tempestuous scene as mysteriously as they had arrived.

SCENE 2

As the sounds of battle died down, King Duncan and his entourage, including his sons Malcolm and Donalbain, and Lennox, stumbled upon a scene straight out of a soldier's nightmare. Among them walked a sergeant, as battered and bruised as the ground beneath their feet, painting a vivid picture of the war that had just unfolded.

Duncan, ever concerned for his men and kingdom, was the first to speak. Who is this man, covered in blood? He looks like he's been through hell and back. Can you tell us what happened in the battle?

Malcolm stepped forward, recognition dawning on his face. This is the sergeant who stood tall against our enemies, fighting valiantly to prevent my capture. Hello, brave warrior! Tell us, how did the battle fare in the end?

The sergeant, weary yet proud, recounted the harrowing tale. The battle was uncertain for the longest time, much like two drowning men clutching at each other, fighting for the last breath. Macdonwald, the rebel, brought forth men from the west, thinking fortune favored his treason. But he was wrong. Macbeth, our hero, fought like a man possessed, his sword a blur of steel that brought death to all who stood against him. He cut through the enemy until he stood face-to-face with Macdonwald and ended his rebellion by placing his head on our walls.

Duncan's eyes gleamed with pride. Oh, what a cousin we have! A true gentleman and a warrior.

The sergeant continued, though pain laced his words. But our relief was short-lived. As soon as we dealt with one threat, another arose. The Norwegian king saw an opportunity in our distraction and attacked anew with fresh men and arms. Our situation seemed dire once again.

Were Macbeth and Banquo dismayed by this new threat? Duncan asked, concern creasing his brow.

Not at all, the sergeant replied, a hint of admiration in his voice. They fought like the legends they are, doubling their efforts and pushing back the enemy with a ferocity that was awe-inspiring. If I didn't know any better, I'd say they sought to bathe in the blood of their enemies or create a new field of death akin to Golgotha. But, my king, I must rest now, for my wounds are deep and they cry out for attention.

As the sergeant was led away to be tended by the medics, Duncan turned at the sound of new footsteps, his gaze falling on the approaching figure of Ross, a thane known for his worthiness and swift actions.

Malcolm identified him immediately, Here comes the esteemed Thane of Ross.

Lennox observed, Look at the urgency in his eyes. He bears news that seems extraordinary.

Ross greeted with respect, God save the king!

Duncan, eager for news, asked, From where do you bring news, noble Thane?

Ross replied, his voice heavy with the weight of his tidings, "I come from Fife, my king, where the Norwegian flags mock us from the sky, chilling our people to the bone. Norway, along with a vast army and the traitorous Thane of Cawdor, initiated a fierce battle. But our forces, led