Macbeth
Macbeth
Book Brief
Beta512
Novel • Fiction
Scotland • 1970s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Jo Nesbø’s Macbeth reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tragedy in a gritty, dysfunctional urban setting. The tale follows a police officer's rise to power amid corruption and moral decay, highlighting themes of ambition, betrayal, and guilt.
Reviews & Readership
21,956 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jo Nesbø's Macbeth is praised for its dark, gripping narrative and inventive take on Shakespeare's classic. The atmosphere is intensely moody, and Nesbø's prose is compelling. Critics note, however, that the complex plot can be convoluted, and some characters lack depth. Overall, it offers a thrilling, albeit occasionally confusing, retelling.
Who Should Read Macbeth?
Readers who enjoy dark, psychological thrillers, and complex characters would be drawn to Jo Nesbø's Macbeth. It's ideal for fans of gritty crime novels like Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo or Tana French's In the Woods. This modern take on Shakespeare's tragedy combines noir elements with intense suspense.
21,956 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Macbeth by Jo Nesbø is a modern retelling of Shakespeare's classic play, reimagined within a gritty, crime-ridden city dominated by drug lords and corrupt officials.
Jo Nesbø incorporates elements of his Nordic Noir style into the novel, providing a uniquely dark and suspenseful atmosphere that aligns with the original tragedy's themes.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The book is part of the Hogarth Shakespeare project, where contemporary authors reimagine Shakespeare's plays in modern settings.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
512
Novel • Fiction
Scotland • 1970s
2018
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!