but do I have to write it?

Yes, it’s time for Macbeth. I know you are all as excited as I am? right? Ok, if you’re not, you may wish to look at the following website, they have Macbeth in graphic novel format which you might find more appealing.

You should aim to go through the text before we begin, or at the very least try to get a copy on DVD. The last version was filmed in Melbourne and had Sam Worthington as Macbeth, but I warn you, it is very graphic, and at times interprets the text a bit too loosely. At other times it is far too literal. When I went to see it the whole audience groaned aloud at several scenes because they were ridiculous. You have been warned. We will not be using that version in class.

If you can get your hands on the graphic novel you will find it very good. the drawing is amazing and the interpretations are really clever, although it does sometimes take some of the imaginative licence away from you. For example in the dagger scene we really see a dagger which negates the whole ‘dagger of the mind’ question. Anyway, enjoy, I will.

You also don’t have to take my word for it (although you really should!). Here is a review of the graphic novel from Grovel, the graphic novel website.

Here are some activity ideas and some hints on Scribd.

Gunpowder, treason and plot. Those of you who are in year 11 are the lucky ones. You get to study the fantastic Wachowski brothers’ film V for Vendetta. This film is about corrupt government, resistance, courage, the power of free speech, art and fear. We will be viewing the film in class and then looking at various scenes in detail to analyse the key ideas and themes. If you want to get a head start you could go to this site here, it is the official site of the film.

Meanwhile, you should aim to view it at home yourselves before we start so that you don’t miss anything.