Who is William Shakespeare? Born on April 23, 1564 in Stratford-on-Avon. Married Anne Hathaway when he was 18. She was 26. Together, they had three children. –Susanna, a daughter –Judith and Hamnet, twins Opened the Globe Theater in 1599 with his acting company, Lord Chamberlain’s Men. Died on April 23, He is buried in Stratford.

37 Plays, broken up into three main genres Comedies 154 Sonnets, linked under one main theme 2 Narrative Poems Tragedies Histories “Venus and Adonis” “The Rape of Lucrece”

Built in 1599 Circular Structure Costumes, props and scenery were very limited “Groundlings” stood around the stage for a penny The most expensive seats were about $7.00

The Globe

Macbeth Written in 1606 Performed during a visit of King James’ brother-in-law Based on actual events. However, Shakespeare bends the actual history to fit to his storyline. Shakespeare also altered the characters’ personalities to suit his needs.

Character Changes –Banquo is portrayed in a more honorable and loyal light –Duncan is portrayed as older and benevolent ruler –History portrays Banquo as a traitor and an accomplice to Duncan’s murder, and Duncan as a feeble, young “milksop.” King James was distantly related to Banquo. Shakespeare portrayal of Banquo would have complimented James greatly.

Macbeth and Banquo have defeated two separate invading armies, much to the delight of the king, Macbeth’s cousin. The men meet 3 witches who prophesize the mens’ futures. They decree that Macbeth will one day be king, and Banquo will father future kings. Macbeth writes his wife, Lady Macbeth, to tell her the news.

Will Macbeth and Lady Macbeth survive? Will guilt ultimately be their downfall? Who is the true King of Scotland? Will the witches’ final prophecies prove true?

Brave, but violent soldier Not very virtuous, after his first crime, the others become easier and easier to commit Tyrannical ruler, not well suited for political intrigue Macbeth

Lady Macbeth Deeply ambitious, she lusts for power and position Uses her husband’s love as a way to control him Her ambition eventually becomes her downfall

The Witches Three bearded, hideous hags who plot mischief against Macbeth. Their evil, vindictive personalities and their dark prophesies pervade the entire play.

Duncan, King of Scotland The good king of Scotland Model of a virtuous, benevolent, and farsighted ruler He symbolizes growth and prosperity for his country and people

Banquo Ambitious, but he does not act on his thoughts Brave and noble general Close friend of Macbeth’s Has a son—Fleance

Macduff A Scottish nobleman hostile to Macbeth from the start Leader of the crusade to unseat Macbeth

Malcolm—Duncan’s oldest son Donalbain—Duncan's son and Malcolm's younger brother Fleance—Banquo’s son Hecate—Goddess of witchcraft, aids the three witches Lady Macduff—Macduff’s wife Minor Characters

Themes in Macbeth Appearance versus reality The importance of loyalty Reason versus desire Attempts to control the future Violence and its outcomes

Famous Quotes “Fair is foul, and foul is fair” “Yet do I fear thy nature; It is too full o’ th’ milk of human kindness” “Double, double, toil and trouble Fire burn and caldron bubble” “Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood Clean from my hand?” “Things without all remedy Should be without regard; what’s done is done.”

Macbeth agonizes over murdering his king. Lady Macbeth finally forces his hand, and the deed is done. Haunted by guilt, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth grow more and more paranoid. Macbeth becomes desperate to ensure his family line will continue. He even searches out the 3 witches to ask their advice.