Ambivalent Macbeth

Macbeth is often read in a singular fashion: either as a cautionarymorality tale warning against ambition, or as a psychological studyof evil. In Ambivalent Macbeth, renowned Shakespeare scholar R.S.White argues that these differing readings result from a profoundlyambivalent 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'. Heconsiders Shakespeare's historical context and source material, andexamines key cinematic, theatrical and other adaptations of the play.Throughout, he argues that an open-minded acceptance of ambivalencecan inspire a multitude of readings, and that this complexity helps toexplain the play's intriguing longevity.