Macbeth is often read in a singular fashion: either as a cautionary morality tale warning against ambition, or as a psychological study of evil. In Ambivalent Macbeth, renowned Shakespeare scholar R.S. White argues that these differing readings result from a profoundly ambivalent play, and that this quality is a clue to its greatness.White explores how radical ambivalence permeates the atmosphere, imagery, themes and characterisation of 'the Scottish play'. He considers Shakespeare's historical context and source material, and examines key cinematic, theatrical and other adaptations of the play. Throughout, he argues that an open-minded acceptance of ambivalence can inspire a multitude of readings, and that this complexity helps to explain the play's intriguing longevity.

Book Information
ISBN 9781743325483
Author Robert S. White
Format Paperback
Page Count 198
Imprint Sydney University Press
Publisher Sydney University Press
Weight(grams) 290g