Macbeth: Critical Essays

Originally published in 1991. Collecting together commentary and critique on ‘the Scottish play’, this book showcases varied discussions of the text and the theatrical productions. From Samuel Johnson’s brief 1765 comment to the editor’s own piece on the Porter’s scene, the texts included here are popular important accounts of thoughts and scholarship on the play over the years. Some pieces address the most famous early Lady Macbeth – Mrs Siddons, while others look at a theme or specific issue such as Lady Macbeth’s children. This is a great sample of the voluminous body of work looking at the tragedy, considering its images, symbols, meanings and its challenges for the stage.