1. Characters, Setting, Themes
The Tragedy of Macbeth
Characters, Setting, Themes

2. “Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and caldron bubble!”
-The Weird Sisters

3. Fun Facts
Macbeth was written in 1606 and is Shakespeare’s 31st play. Shakespeare wrote Macbeth for King James I of England, formally James VI of Scotland, Queen Elizabeth’s cousin.

4. Fun Facts
The "real" Macbeth became King of Scotland in 1040 after defeating a historical Duncan. Shakespeare presents an older King Duncan in the play. The real Macbeth ruled Scotland for 17 years.

5. Fun Facts
James I was a descendent of the Banquo-Fleance line. Shakespeare presented Banquo's character in a honorable light to please James I.

6. Principal Characters Duncan- King of Scotland Three Witches
Lady Macbeth
Scottish Generals & Noblemen
Macbeth
Banquo
Macduff

7. Characters Fleance- Banquo’s son Malcolm & Donaldbain- Duncan’s sons
Siward- Earl of Northumberland, general of English forces
Seyton
Three Murderers

8. Characters
Lady Macduff
Hecate
Angus
Lennox
Ross

9. Where it all goes down…
The events of Macbeth take place in Scotland and England in the 11th century.

10. The play opens just before a thunder storm.
Excessive darkness and thunderous sound effects add to the already eerie atmosphere. Shakespeare’s use of light and shadow/darkness are prominent in Macbeth.

11. Elements of Macbeth Tragic Hero Soliloquy Aside Comic relief Tragedy
Paradox

12. Act 1, Scene 1
The Weird Sisters (witches) enter and establish themselves as characters.
They make references to Macbeth, and that they have a part to play in his future
… start with Act 1, Scene 2 tonight

14. Resources