The Tempest

The Tempest presents an edited version of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. The fact that it is edited is an essential aspect of its success. Skilful cutting preserves key speeches and retains the work's shape and momentum while avoiding passages that may have less relevance to modern audiences. The edited original text is accompanied by a modern English translation throughout. This simplified version puts Shakespeare's work into understandable, contemporary language. It goes for clarity of expression rather than poetic effect and is a brilliant support for those who would otherwise struggle to comprehend Shakespeare's verse. Both Shakespeare's text and its modern translation are presented throughout in comic book style. The vivid two colour illustrations have their own intrinsic appeal, but also provide important information about setting, historical context, atmosphere and character. The Shakespeare Comic Book Series has become an established and popular part of the English curriculum in many UK schools. Mainly used by teachers at KS 2-4, the comic book approach to his work has been described by one teacher as 'the perfect introduction to Shakespeare.'