CliffsNotes on Shakespeare's Macbeth

by Alex Went

The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. The latest generation of titles in this series also feature glossaries and visual elements that complement the classic, familiar format. Packed with action and vivid portrayal of human relationships, Shakespeare's Macbeth traces the bloody climb to power and tragic ruin of a fate-plagued king. Count on CliffNotes on Macbeth to carry you through the rise and fall of a cast of characters that includes a cruel and ambitious warrior, his wicked wife, and a trio of witches who have wormed their way into audiences' hearts since William Shakespeare first presented their prophecies about 300 years ago. Show your classmates – and your grade-granting teacher – that you're in the know with English literature. You can't miss with scene summaries, plot explorations, language simplification, and insights into the author's life and times. Other features that help you study include

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference

112 pages, Paperback

First published June 13, 2000

Reviews

[Tina Lewis]

Ok ok. So my secrets out. When it comes to reading most Classics, the best way for me to be able to get it is if I either read the a Cliff notes first, or watch a Version made into a Hollyweird movie. I read Dante's inferno that way and understood quite well and even found parts of it highly entertaining, if not outright hysterical.
As the saying goes-it's not stupid if it works lol.

[Tiffany Day · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love using CliffsNotes as they were intended: as a supplement to great literature. They are particularly useful as I homeschool my son (which is why I read this on Macbeth). My only complaint is this particular one seemed a little light on symbolism... although, if there isn't as much of it in the play, then I guess it can't be included. As always, a great supplemental tool; I love the layout of the more recent publications.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated the way he analyzed each act under these categories:
theme, character insight, literary device, style and language. Very helpful!
to see my review of Macbeth, go here:
http://wordsandpeace.com/2012/03/23/2...