Macbeth | Shakespeare for kids

By Jeanette Vigon

Whispers of ambition, power, and the supernatural intertwine in Jeanette Vigon's "Macbeth," where a Scottish warrior's quest for the throne spirals into a chilling tale of betrayal and fate, captivating young readers with a timeless drama reimagined. Through simplified language and carefully crafted scenes, Vigon retains the essence of the original play while making it engaging for children.
The story unfolds in the misty highlands of Scotland, where Macbeth, driven by prophecy and spurred by his ambitious wife, embarks on a bloody path to power, only to be consumed by guilt and madness.

• Simplified for Young Readers: The complex themes and language of Shakespeare's "Macbeth" are made approachable for children, making classic literature accessible from an early age.
• Moral and Educational Lessons: Alongside the engaging narrative, young readers learn about the consequences of unchecked ambition and the importance of moral integrity.
• Engaging and Imaginative: Vivid reimaginations of key scenes capture the imagination, bringing the world of medieval Scotland and its intriguing characters to life for young audiences.

"Macbeth" becomes the doorway through which children step into the enthralling world of Shakespeare, weaving through themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of our choices, sparking a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for classic literature.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jeanette Vigon
• Release date: May 3, 2024
• ISBN: 9791223036280

Book preview

Introduction

Welcome to the enigmatic and turbulent world of Macbeth, a journey through the misty highlands of Scotland, where ambition, power, and the supernatural blend into an unforgettable saga. This isn't just a tale of kings and warriors; it's a story of prophecy, moral dilemmas, and the haunting consequences of unchecked ambition.

Our narrative unfolds in a time of valor and mysticism, where the clash of swords resounds, and the fate of a kingdom is swayed by whispered prophecies. In this land, Macbeth, a valiant warrior, stands at the precipice of greatness and downfall. In the shadowy realms of Scotland, we meet Macbeth, lauded as a hero, yet ensnared in a web of his own ambition and the foreboding words of mysterious witches. Beware, for this journey is not a simple path to power—it's tangled with the strands of fate and the thirst for supremacy!

Yet, fear not, for this story is not solely about eerie omens and grim deeds. Within its depths lie wisdom and cautionary tales, with bonds of loyalty, moments of bravery, and even glimpses of introspection. Amidst these dramatic episodes, there are also lessons about integrity, the dangers of unbridled ambition, and the significance of moral choices.

So, gather around and prepare to embark on Macbeth in a way that's perfect for young adventurers. Imagine thrilling encounters transformed into compelling narratives, courageous decisions to reflect upon, and learning about the essence of true leadership and the peril of ambition. Are you ready? Let's join Macbeth, the loyal Banquo, the wise King Duncan, and a cast of unforgettable characters, as we delve into a story that has enthralled audiences for ages, now reimagined for young explorers like you! Journey with us into the mystical world of Macbeth, where every castle and battlefield has a tale to tell, and every character has a lesson to share!

ACT I

scene 1

In a deserted place, amidst thunder and lightning, three witches gathered.

The first witch asked, When shall we three meet again? Will it be during a thunderstorm, lightning, or when it rains?

The second witch replied, We'll meet when the noisy chaos is over, when the battle is finished, no matter who wins or loses.

The third witch added, We shall meet before the sun sets.

The first witch wondered, Where shall we meet?

The second witch suggested, Let's gather on the heath.

The third witch mentioned, Yes, and there we shall meet Macbeth.

Just then, the first witch heard her cat, Graymalkin, calling. The second witch heard her toad, Paddock. The third witch said it was time to go.

Together, they chanted, What's fair seems foul, and what's foul seems fair. Let's fly through the mist and dirty air.

And with that, the witches disappeared into the foggy night, leaving the place as mysterious as they found it.

scene 2

Near Forres, in a camp, King Duncan, his sons Malcolm and Donalbain, Lennox, and their attendants met a wounded sergeant.

King Duncan noticed the injured man and asked, Who is this hurt man? He looks like he can tell us the latest about the battle.

Malcolm pointed out, This is the sergeant who bravely fought to prevent my capture. Hello, brave friend! Tell the king what happened in the battle when you left.

The sergeant replied, The battle was uncertain. It was like two tired swimmers clinging to each other, struggling to stay afloat. The cruel Macdonwald, a true rebel, with nature's evils flocking to him, was helped by soldiers from the western isles. But even with luck on his side, he was no match for Macbeth. Macbeth, truly brave, fought fiercely. His sword worked tirelessly, clearing his way until he faced Macdonwald. Macbeth didn't shake hands or say goodbye to him; he just fought him, and overcame. He won.

Duncan exclaimed, Oh, what a brave cousin! A true gentleman!

The sergeant continued, But just when we thought things would get better, they got worse. Like a storm after the sun, new troubles came. We had just chased Macdonwald's soldiers away when the Norwegian king saw his chance. He attacked us with polished arms and fresh troops.

The sergeant's tale painted a vivid picture of the fierce battle and Macbeth's bravery.

King Duncan asked if the battle discouraged their leaders, Macbeth and Banquo.

The sergeant replied, Not at all! They were as fearless as eagles are to sparrows, or as a lion is to a hare. They fought doubly hard against the enemy. It was as if they wanted to make a second Golgotha with all their wounds. But I am weak now; my wounds need attention.

Duncan praised him, saying, Your words are as honorable as your wounds. He then sent the sergeant to get medical help.

Just then, Ross arrived.

Malcolm recognized him, saying, Here comes the noble Thane of Ross.

Lennox noticed Ross's urgent look and commented, He looks like he has strange news to tell.

Ross greeted the king and reported that he came from Fife, where the Norwegian king, helped by the traitor Thane of Cawdor, started a fierce battle. But Macbeth, like a warrior groomed for war, fought back hard and won the victory.

Duncan was overjoyed to hear