An introduction to…

Macbeth: a tribute to King James I Shakespeare wrote Macbeth in 1606, during King James’ reign. King James was a devout advocate of the “Divine Right of Kings.” The setting is Scotland, King James’ homeland. Banquo was an ancestor of James and is shown in the play to be a virtuous person. James believed himself to be an expert on witchcraft. James had an interest in faith healing.

Macbeth: an appeal to Elizabethan people’s interests Shakespeare demonstrated the Elizabethan belief that the country is stable only if the King is good and virtuous. Elizabethans believed that evil occurs in darkness, which is a recurring theme in Macbeth. Shakespeare included a lot of blood and murder, which the Elizabethans expected to see in a play. The play was considered a thriller.

Before the Curtain Opens When the play begins, there are two wars in progress: Civil War - King Duncan vs. Macdonwald’s rebels National War - Scotland, led by King Duncan, against invading Norway, led by King Sweno

Setting King Duncan is the King of Scotland. The time period is the eleventh century (1000-1099). Shakespeare very loosely based Macbeth off of historical events, but changed a lot of information.

Macbeth: The Characters

Macbeth: brave general under Duncan who becomes too ambitious after three witches prophesy that he will be King of Scotland. Lady Macbeth: vicious wife of Macbeth, even more ambitious than Macbeth. Macbeth Characters

King Duncan: King of Scotland, murdered by Macbeth who was one of his generals whom he had just promoted. Malcolm: Duncan’s eldest son. Donalbain: Duncan’s youngest son. Malcolm Donalbain

Banquo: Macbeth’s friend and general, suspected Macbeth of killing the King. Fleance: Banquo’s son, who survives Macbeth’s attempt to murder him. Macduff: general, believes that Macbeth killed the King Ross: Macduff’s cousin, messenger who carries news to people like Macbeth and Macduff throughout the play.

Hecate: moon goddess and goddess of the witches, directs supernatural occurrences. Makes plan to give Macbeth false security. The three witches: They tell Macbeth that he is to become King, leading him to evil. Lennox: nobleman, suspicious of the murder of the king

Macbeth: Themes

The corrupting power of unchecked ambition How does ambition corrupt characters? Namely, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.

Fate or Free Will Were events destined to happen (fate) or did characters set them in motion on their own (free will)?

Kingship vs. Tyranny Who is a “king” and “tyrant” and why? What are ideal “kingly” characteristics?

Gender Roles – Masculinity and Cruelty How does masculinity = cruelty? How do women play a role in violence?