Macbeth

Migdalia Cruz's Macbeth is a 2018 translation of Shakespeare's play, presented as part of the Play On! Shakespeare project. It reimagines Shakespeare for the twenty-first century, making his works available in print for the first time.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 08 May 2021
Publisher: Arizona Center for Medieval & Renaissance Studies,US

In Migdalia Cruz's Macbeth, the Witches reign supreme, orchestrating a dark and cautionary tale of love, greed, and power. The Macbeths, once hailed as heroes, descend into calamity as the Witches weave their fate. Cruz, a Nuyorican playwright, reimagines Macbeth for a contemporary audience, infusing it with the fervor of the Bronx. Presented in 2018 as part of the Play On! Shakespeare project, an ambitious endeavor by the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, this translation aims to bring Shakespeare's work to modern audiences while preserving the beauty of his verse. Collaborating with a diverse group of contemporary playwrights, screenwriters, and dramaturges from various backgrounds, the project reimagines Shakespeare for the twenty-first century. These volumes mark the first print publication of these works, creating a new First Folio for a new era.

Cruz's Macbeth is a powerful and evocative translation that captures the essence of Shakespeare's original play. The Witches, portrayed as powerful and manipulative forces, play a central role in shaping the Macbeths' destiny. Their prophecies and spells cast a dark shadow over the characters, driving them to commit unspeakable acts in their pursuit of power. The Macbeths, torn between their love for each other and the allure of power, are portrayed as deeply flawed and human. Cruz's language is vivid and evocative, bringing the characters to life and immersing the audience in the intense emotional journey of the play.

One of the standout features of Cruz's translation is her ability to convey the themes of ambition and guilt. Macbeth, driven by his desire for power, is willing to do anything to achieve his goals, even if it means crossing ethical boundaries. Cruz highlights the moral complexity of Macbeth's character, showing how his thirst for power can consume him and lead him to commit acts that he regrets. On the other hand, Lady Macbeth, driven by her desire for her husband's success, is willing to go to extreme lengths to help him achieve his goals. Cruz portrays Lady Macbeth as a complex and layered character, showing her inner struggle with guilt and her willingness to do anything to protect her husband.

Another notable aspect of Cruz's translation is her use of contemporary language and cultural references. She incorporates elements of hip-hop, Latinx culture, and New York City slang into the dialogue, creating a vibrant and relatable portrayal of the characters. This approach allows the play to resonate with a broader audience, making it accessible to people from different backgrounds and cultures.

The Play On! Shakespeare project, as a whole, is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's work. By commissioning new translations of his plays, the project seeks to bring his words to a modern audience while preserving the beauty of his verse. Cruz's Macbeth is a shining example of the project's success, showcasing Shakespeare's ability to transcend time and resonate with audiences across generations.

In conclusion, Migdalia Cruz's Macbeth is a powerful and evocative translation that brings Shakespeare's classic play to a contemporary audience. Cruz's ability to convey the themes of ambition, guilt, and power, as well as her use of contemporary language and cultural references, make the play accessible and relevant to people from all walks of life. The Play On! Shakespeare project is a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's work, and Cruz's Macbeth is a shining example of its success.

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 127 x 196 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780866986601