An English Country Performance of Macbeth 1790

"An English Country Performance of Macbeth" is a satirical print created by J. Wright in 1790, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This hand-colored etching depicts a chaotic scene within a makeshift theater, likely a makeshift stage constructed in a barn, with the audience's enthusiasm equaled by the actors' exaggerated movements. The print is a humorous take on rural theater, highlighting the contrast between the grandeur of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the ramshackle setting. The artist uses exaggerated detail, vibrant colors, and caricatures to accentuate the absurdity of the situation. The print is a fascinating glimpse into 18th century theatrical practices, and its humor continues to resonate with audiences today.