The text of "Macbeth" is reproduced and, in addition, five sections of primary documents and illustrations are included to give students first hand knowledge of the historical and cultural context to the work.

The primary documents are arranged thematically and include illustrations and facsimiles of period documents; excerpts from King James's writings on politics, witchcraft, and religion; contemporary writings on the nature of kingship and tyrannicide; Puritan and Catholic tracts; conduct book literature; and contemporary witchcraft pamphlets.