Hag-Seed: The Tempest retold

In Hag-seed Canadian author Margaret Atwood retells the story of Shakespeare's play, The Tempest, as a modern day novel. The novel is part of a series of the retelling of Shakespeare plays to mark 400 years since the death of the British playwright.

Felix had been the artistic director of Makeshiweg Theatre Festival for a number of years. Rehearsals for the current production, The Tempest, were underway when he was unexpectedly fired. Felix did not forget this act of treachery as he retreated to live in an isolated hut in the countryside. His only companion was the ghost of his daughter, Miranda, who had died when she was three.

Years later he became involved with the Fletcher Correctional Players, a literature and theatre group in the local prison which operated for three months each year. This allowed Felix to once again follow his love of directing plays and encourage the inmates to use their talents to create an annual theatre production. When Felix decided to make the fourth production The Tempest he discovered the opportunity to gain revenge for the way he had been treated by colleagues in the past. 

Margaret Atwood appears to enjoy this opportunity to retell Shakespeare's play as a novel providing her with the opportunity to create a collection of humorous characters who not only reenact the play but also help Felix to eventually gain revenge on those who ruined his career many years earlier. Although this is a story of revenge it is also a story of moving on and hope.

Hag-Seed review - Literary Treats

Hag-Seed review - Readers High Tea

Hag-Seed review - The Guardian

Hag-Seed analysis - Art of Smart  

Hag-Seed study guide - Lit Charts