November 4, 2016

Manga Shakespeare


Manga Shakespeare: Twelfth Night
Amulet Books (amuletbooks.com)



This is Shakespeare presented in comic book form, in this case, Japanese manga. Characters are introduced first, followed by a version of the play told in one continuous story, with no dividing acts, scenes, or stage directions. Complete speeches are also dispensed with; characters speak Shakespearean language in excerpts only. Meaning is provided by the graphics, which does make it easier. However, I sometimes found the panels a bit chaotic and hard to follow, forcing me to stop to examine a page more closely. My confusion extended to some of the characters as well, who tended to look alike. Thank goodness for the plot summary at the end!

In conclusion, I would say that for teens who struggle with Shakespeare, the manga versions may be more to their liking.



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