This was a very thorough book on the historical background of Macbeth, the historical figure, not the Shakespeare character.

I got this on recommendation from a historian and I can see how this would be a great read for someone who has an interest in medieval Scotland.
For me, much of the detail was too complex. That is not a criticism of the book, but a reflection of my own knowledge and interest in this particular era in history.

However, the book did answer the questions I had about Macbeth's background, the differences between the play and historical facts, and the background to the issues of succession in this particular era. ( )

Macbeth: Man and Myth, by Nick Aitchison, presents evidence to show the difference between who Macbeth really was and the mythological Macbeth that most people associate with Shakespeare’s play. Aitchison has previously published books on the topics of medieval times, and he earned his PhD at Glasgow University.
Very little has survived from 11th century Scotland, and we may never know who the real Macbeth was. The country’s history has been re-written many times, often to suit the sensibilities of the current rulers, so the history has been altered each time it was re-written. Sometimes the history was re-written by someone outside of Scotland, lending to inaccuracies in translation.
Macbeth is an incredibly well-researched book, yet I was impressed with how easily comprehensible it is.
The book concentrates on three areas. First, it presents the extremely small amount of tangible evidence we now have of 11th century Scotland. Then, it shows how this evidence either proves or leaves unconfirmed current beliefs of who Macbeth was, what he did, and where he did it. Last of all, there are visits to the sites the myths hold as important places in Macbeth’s life, and we’re shown how those are most likely erroneous.
Aitchison doesn’t let his personal feelings show. He just presents the facts and arguments as to why they do or do not collaborate with the life of Macbeth.
Dozens of plates are included showing historical documents, tapestries, maps, and photos, all of which add to the immediacy of the text.
Even if you only know Shakespeare’s Macbeth you will enjoy this book. It will also appeal to anyone interested in the history of Scotland, it’s lineage of kings, or the study of medieval times.
This is a book I will keep on my shelf for future reference!
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It was interesting but not exactly riveting. MacBeth wasn't the first member of the royal kin group to remove a king and Duncan had the lost battles he started, never a good portent or something to inspire your nobles. Malcolm II tried going against tradition by choosing his successor instead of his mormaers choosing the most capable successor. Malcolm III's becoming king didn't bring peace to Scotland as members of the Moray kin group and the sons of his first wife would challenge his dynasty right to the crown. The summation is that we don't where his seat of power was or where he and Lulach are buried though it tradition says on Iona. I found On the Trail of the Real Macbeth, King of Alba by Cameron Taylor and MacBeth by Fiona Watson more interesting. Taylor's a history and travel guide while Watson's was a very detailed history. ( )