1. Macbeth An introduction…

2. Background on Macbeth Real 11 th century Scottish King, but ruled peacefully Written in 1605-1607 Tragedy Written to please King James (formerly King of Scots [1567-1603], interested in witchcraft) Historically, play would take place in late 11 th century, but as typical of Shakespeare, several modern anachronistic references

3. Themes 1. Great ambition or lust for power ultimately brings ruin 2. Evil can be disguised as something nice- looking 3. Temptation overcomes even the strong. 4. Guilt haunts the guilty

4. Watch for… Who is ultimately responsible for all the deaths that occur (who do you blame?) The role of blood—what is it symbolic for, where do we see it, and who sees blood most often? The role of the supernatural Witches Ghosts Hallucinations

5. Macbeth as Tragic Hero? Noble birth Several redeemable, likable characteristics Has tragic flaw of character Downfall caused by tragic flaw Has self-realization or self-awareness but often too late Death usually causes audience to sympathize or feel pity.

6. Macbeth Thane of Glamis and Cawdor, a general in the King's army Tragic downfall is his quest for power or his AMBITION.

7. Hecate and the 3 witches Hecate: ancient (pre-Olympian) Greco-Roman goddess of witchcraft and crossroads. Sometimes depicted with three faces. Witches: Disgusting women (if you can call them that) Add an element of supernatural and prophecy to the play. They can assume the shape of an animal, but with a defect, such as a tailless rat. They are described as having beards but looking human.

8. Lady Macbeth loves her husband. She is also ambitious but lacks the morals of her husband.

9. King Duncan King of Scotland Duncan is a good king who his people like. However, he is unable to discern those who threaten his reign.

10. Banquo Thane of Lochaber, a general in the King's army Banquo serves as a foil to Macbeth—one of his closest friends King James I believed himself descended from Banquo

11. Macduff Thane of Fife, a nobleman of Scotland Macduff shows early on a distrust of Macbeth.

12. Malcolm and Donalbain Both are minor characters Sons of King Duncan Malcolm is set to inherit the throne next

13. Lennox and Ross Noblemen and minor characters Both observe Macbeth and become suspicious of him