Macbeth

by K. Briggs

A vivid graphic novel adaptation of Shakespeare's Macbeth. Faithful to the original text while providing a new lavish rendition.

When three witches prophecy to Macbeth that he will one day become the King of Scotland, an epic of unhappiness, treachery, and blood begins. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s ambitions lead to an ever-growing path of murder as Macbeth grows ever-closer to the throne. But where will it all end? Only with death – and with madness.

Influenced by the witches and magic of Macbeth, K. Briggs’s lush new graphic novel rendition of the classic provides a new interpretation of the Scottish play. Briggs, as a Shakespeare reader (and performer) from age twelve, brings their lifelong love of the Bard to this work.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Classics, Historical Fiction

180 pages, Hardcover

Published July 27, 2023

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably not a great introduction to the play, as I think it's richer and more enjoyable if you have a grasp on it so you can dig into what the art brings to the table. That being said, the art is a lot of fun. It brings a new layer to this text that is missing from other graphic novels I have seen, which tend to feel more like a comprehension aid than a work in their own right.

[Jack Phoenix · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adapting MACBETH is hardly the most original idea, but when the end result is this beautiful and mesmerizing, it matters not.

[Forever Young Adult]

Graded By: Mandy C.
Cover Story: And Hold Thee To My Heart
BFF Charm: Of Horrid Hell Can Come a Devil More Damned
Talky Talk: (As Upon Thee, Macbeth, Their Speeches Shine)
Arty Art: Shall Draw Him on to His Confusion
Bonus Factors: Enter the Three Witches, A Woman’s Story at a Winter’s Fire
Anti-Bonus Factor: His Secret Murders Sticking on His Hands
Relationship Status: Till then, enough.—Come, Friends

Read the full book report here.

[Rayna Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

K. Briggs took Shakespeare's Macbeth and turned into something I wish I had when I was in high school. The adaptation took Shakespeare's words and turned it into the graphic novel. The mixed media he used caused the images to pop off the page. I imagine students having in depth conversations about the words and images, delving into the meaning of both. Having the images helped me decipher the meaning more than it ever did! I could see this book being used at the high school or college level. Thanks to Avery Hill Publishing for providing the #litreviewcrew with a copy!

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very interesting and artistic version of the timeless Shakespeare play.

Check out my review at Forever Young Adult.

[Elyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this graphic novel version of a classic.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

BEAUTIFUL adaptation!

[Ilia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting choices in backgrounds and layouts, and the variation in style keeps things interesting. Not sure what is added by the decision to change Malcolm’s gender, and the repeated tarot motif.

[Neev Elliott · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5*

[Sal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a beautifully illustrated story, it's unfortunate I do not fully understand the plot, I must have to return to this novel when I have thoroughly understood this play.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's MacBeth, so of course it's incredible! The Scottish Play is my favorite of Shakespeare's work and this version did not disappoint. What a wonderful piece of art.

This maybe isn't the best way to experience MacBeth for the first time, as this isn't the clearest and easiest to understand version that I've come across in my time. Even I got lost in the sauce at a few points while reading this.

However, this graphic adaptation more than makes up for it with the artwork. I can't rave enough about the art style. Looking at this book is such a delight. It's just pure artistic expression. There's nothing obvious, literal or expected from the visuals, it's 100% the artist's creative expression of this play.

9.5/10, an absolute treat. I am so glad I stumbled upon this!