everything there is to know about macbeth
TRANSCRIPT
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Who was Shakespeare?
Shakespeare, also called the Bard of Avon, was a famous playwright and poet and was
particularly well known for his sonnets. He was born in 1564 and died in 1616, in England.
He married Anne Hathaway and had three children. He made many contributions to the
English language and literature.
History of the Play
Macbeth was written in 1606, when James I was the King of England. James I was a
descendent of Banquo and was born in Scotland. The play is loosely based on the story of
Macbeth, from August 1040. He was a real King of Scotland in the 11th century. However,
the portrayal of these characters in the play is not historically correct.
The play encountered many problems in production. It was performed at the Globe Theatre
in 1611. It’s first performance would have been before King James I, and was written to
please him. It was written after the gunpowder plot in 1605, an attempt to kill James I.
Superstition and the Three Witches
In the Elizabethan era, witches were believed to have evil power to communicate with the
devil, the dead and see the future. They could use spells and potions to spread disease and
murder. They could fly or become invisible, disguise themselves as animals, affect the
weather and destroy crops.
In Shakespeare’s day, these myths were widely believed, which meant that a large number
of women were tortured and executed for being witches. Even the king had a fear of
witches, leading to the passing of the law that anyone found to be using witchcraft would be
put to death.
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Playwright’s Techniques
Technique Definition Example Antithesis When two words of
opposite or contrasting meaning are used together to give balance
Fair is foul, and foul is fair. (Act I, Scene I)
Juxtaposition Two things are placed together to highlight their differences and compare and distinguish them
Lady Macbeth vs. Lady MacDuff Lady Macbeth vs. the gentlewoman King Duncan vs. Macbeth Macbeth vs. Lady Macbeth Macbeth vs. Banquo Duncan: “But signs of nobleness, like stars, shall shine” Macbeth: “Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires”
Oxymoron A condensed form of a paradox in which two contradictory words are used together. Produces a rhetorical effect.
“So foul and fair a day...” (Act I Scene III)
Paradox A seemingly self-contradictory statement which in fact expresses the truth
So foul and fair a day I have not seen (Act I Scene III)
Em Dash The symbol “-“ indicates a break in thought, adding emphasis.
Rhyming Couplet Two successive lines of poetry, often expressing a complete idea, with the same rhyme and meter
“Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air” (Act I, Scene I) “Stars, hide your fires; let not light see my black deep desires” (Act I Scene IV)
Enjambment Running together of lines of poetry, from one line or couplet to the next
Art thou not, fatal vision, sensible To feeling as to sight? or art thou but A dagger of the mind, a false creation, Proceeding from the heat-oppressed brain? (Act II Scene I)
Triads A collection of three ideas, concepts or deities loosely connected.
“Glamis hath murder'd sleep, and therefore Cawdor Shall sleep no more; Macbeth shall sleep no more” (Act II Scene II) The three witches
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Rhythm The regular pattern or flow of language
Use of iambic pentameter
Rhyme Words with the same terminal sounds, often located at the end of lines of poetry
ROSS I'll see it done. DUNCAN What he hath lost noble Macbeth hath won (Act I Scene II) Old Man God's benison go with you; and with those That would make good of bad, and friends of foes! (Act II Scene IV)
Motif Repeated contrasts, literary devices or structures that develop and contribute to a specific theme or the mood in the text. Has symbolic significance in the work.
Blood Water Washing hands “Fair is foul, and foul is fair” - good and evil Supernatural Clothing - “borrowed robes”
Apostrophe An address to an absent or imaginary person, or an abstract quality or idea.
Macbeth’s address to Banquo’s ghost Macbeth’s address to the dagger
Theme A central point about which a text is composed
Ambition Nature Guilt Order and chaos Light and Darkness Sleep Fate Loyalty
Irony A statement expressing the opposite of what is really meant, whereby the reader is expected to realise the true meaning. Uses contradictory statements. A statement which, when taken in context, can mean the opposite of what is written literally.
Macbeth’s entrance just as King Duncan notes his own inability to judge the character of others (Act I Scene IV)
Dramatic Irony When the audience is aware of certain information that the characters are unaware of.
MACDUFF How does my wife? ROSS Why, well. MACDUFF And all my children? ROSS Well too. MACDUFF The tyrant has not batter'd at
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their peace? ROSS No; they were well at peace when I did leave 'em. (Act IV Scene III) In the previous scene, Macduff’s family were murdered.
Binary Opposition Placing two things that are complete opposites together to contrast them
Natural vs. Unnatural Good vs. Evil Light vs. Dark
Foreshadowing When an event later in the text is hinted, suggested, or showed to the readers or audience. The hints often appear coincidental, but set the tone. The author hints about future plot developments.
“Foul and fair” - this foreshadows the commotion and chaos that will ensue once Macbeth’s ambition takes over and he murders Duncan. “Sleep shall neither night nor day” (Act I Scene III) - Macbeth and Lady Macbeth could not sleep from their guilt later in the play “A little water clears us of this deed” (Act II Scene II) - Lady Macbeth later went insane over the guilt that would not be washed away
Characterisation The way a writer describes how a character looks, speaks, behaves and thinks
Soliloquies reveal inner thoughts of the more complex characters in the play. Dialogue between Lady Macbeth and Macbeth shows their relationship
Symbolism When a person, object, image, word or event is used to evoke a range of additional meaning beyond its literal significance and suggests something greater than itself.
Blood is a symbol of guilt Weather symbolises the state of the world (turmoil and chaos, or peace and order) Dagger as a symbol of ambition
Foil A character that juxtaposes or highlights the opposite traits of another
Banquo and Macbeth Duncan and Macbeth
Metonymy A type of metaphor when something closely associated with the subject is substituted for it.
The stormy weather when Macbeth and Banquo encounter the witches
Personification A form of metaphor in which human characteristics are attributed to non-human
“And fortune, on his damned quarrel smiling, Show'd like a rebel's whore” (Act I Scene II)
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things. Familiar human behaviours and emotions are assigned to animals, inanimate objects and abstract ideas.
Hyperbole A boldly exaggerated statement that adds emphasis without intending to be literally true. Can be used for serious, ironic or comic effect
“Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood Clean from my hand?” (Act II Scene II)
Pun A play on words to bring out a different meaning, suggesting two or more meanings, with humorous or rhetoric effect. Different senses of the same word are deliberately confused.
Porter Marry, sir, nose-painting, sleep, and urine. Lechery, sir, it provokes, and unprovokes; it provokes the desire, but it takes away the performance: therefore, much drink may be said to be an equivocator with lechery: it makes him, and it mars him; it sets him on, and it takes him off; it persuades him, and disheartens him; makes him stand to, and not stand to; in conclusion, equivocates him in a sleep, and, giving him the lie, leaves him. (Act II Scene III)
Metaphor A comparison between two unlike things without using the words “like” or “as.” It asserts the identity of dissimilar things. Two seemingly unlike things are linked in the form of implicit comparison to suggest some kind of identity. Creates dramatic effect.
“Out, out, brief candle! Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage And then is heard no more” (Act V Scene V) “look like the innocent flower, But be the serpent under't” (Act I Scene V)
Allusion A brief reference to a person, place, thing, event or idea from literature to enrich the author’s work. It implies reading and cultural experiences in the reader. Provides an emotional and intellectual context.
“Or memorise another Golgotha” (Act I Scene II) - reference to Christ’s crucifixion.
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Imagery Descriptions that appeal to the readers senses, suggesting mental images of sights, sounds, tastes, feelings or actions. Conveys sensory impressions, emotions or moods
“Where the Norweyan banners flout the sky And fan our people cold” (Act I Scene II)
Simile An explicit comparison between two things using the words “like,” “as,” “appears,” “than” or “seems.” The differences between the two things add to the effect of the simile.
“As two spent swimmers, that do cling together And choke their art” (Act I Scene II)
Diction Specific choices in words or phrases; often figurative language. It is appropriate to analyse diction when you can discuss the connotations of particular word choices.
“All our service In every point twice done and then done double Were poor and single business to contend Against those honours deep and broad wherewith Your majesty loads our house: for those of old, And the late dignities heap'd up to them, We rest your hermits.”
Act I Scene VI - Pleasant words, welcoming tone - hides true intentions.
Register The language used in a particular setting - formal, informal, colloquial, vulgar. Determined by diction.
Lady Macbeth - uses formal register when speaking to others to maintain regal composure, using more informal register when she is talking to Macbeth
Repetition The repeated use of particular sounds, words, phrases, sentences, etc to structure a text.
“knock knock knock” (Act II Scene III) “Out, damned spot! out, I say!” (Act V Scene I)
Stage Directions The written instructions on how characters should act and move in a play, as well as lighting, props, etc.
Exit and entrance of characters, especially around soliloquies. i.e. Lady Macbeth’s soliloquy in Act I Scene V - entrance of the messenger shows dual personality.
Lighting The control of the quality of light on the
Darkness during the scenes with the witches (storm and clouds)
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stage - dimness, brightness, direction, etc
Lady Macbeth’s candle
Sound Noises that are made during the play, such as music, bells, cries, etc.
Ringing of the bell to indicate murder Knocking on the door
Onomatopoeia The use of a word that resembles the sound it denotes.
“Knock, knock, knock! Who's there, i' the name of Beelzebub?” (Act II Scene III)
Alliteration The repetition of the same consonant sounds in a sequence of words, often at the beginning of the words. Emphasises key words and adds rhythm.
“Fair is foul, and foul is fair: Hover through the fog and filthy air” (Act I Scene I)
Tragic Hero The main character in a tragedy. They have a tragic flaw that eventually causes their downfall.
Macbeth - starts off with too much goodness to let him do unnatural deeds, but eventually he is overcome by ambition and destroys the natural order that existed around him, bringing about his downfall.
Hamartia When a character has a tragic flaw, misperception, or blindness that is the result of their strengths or abilities. It usually implies that the trait that gave them strength would ironically bring about their downfall.
Macbeth’s hamartia is his ambition
Hubris A term implying arrogance, excessive self-pride, and self-confidence. They cannot recognise their personal limitations, and leads to their downfall.
Macbeth becomes like this once he is king.
Peripeteia The sudden reversal of fortune in the story, often leading to the downfall of the protagonist
Everything goes well for Macbeth, and then the tides turn and his downfall begins.
Mood The emotion of a piece of writing created by the writer. The
Macbeth has a very dark mood, as the audience sees that Macbeth goes about realising his ambition in a way that will
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predominating atmosphere or tone of the work.
bring about his downfall. Lady Macbeth’s planning makes it more sinister, the nature of the witches and their prophesies also.
Tone A reflection of the attitude of the writer, used to create the mood. It is used to convey the attitude of the writer. Relies on diction, imagery, language and syntax. It can change.
Macbeth’s fear contributes to the tone of suspense, trepidation in Act I Scene III Lady Macbeth’s determination and evil desires contribute to a sinister tone in Act I Scene 5 Change in Lady Macbeth’s tone when the messenger enters - Act I Scene V
Atmosphere The mood or tone created by describing the characters and the setting in a piece of writing
Atmosphere during the encounter with the witches is created by the weather - rain, thunder. Horrific descriptions of the witches, and the fear felt by Macbeth and Banquo. Act I Scene III
Soliloquy A speech that is made without the presence of other characters, allowing them to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings.
Lady Macbeth’s soliloquy after receiving Macbeth’s letter. Act I Scene V
Prose Literary work that mirrors the language of everyday speech
Most of the play, except for the parts that rhyme
Dialogue Conversation between characters in a literary work
MACBETH My dearest love, Duncan comes here to-night.
LADY MACBETH And when goes hence? MACBETH To-morrow, as he purposes. (Act I Scene V)
Stream of Consciousness
The continuous flow of ideas and feelings experienced by the speaker at that time, reflecting their thought processes. It is often fragmented
Lady Macbeth’s speech after she goes insane, in front of the doctor and gentlewoman.
Gaps and Silences When the author assumes that the audiences realises when is going on, even though it is not explicitly stated. Leaves unanswered questions. Allows the audience to bring their
Lady Macduff and her children are murdered offstage Lady Macbeth’s commits suicide offstage
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own experience into the interpretation and understanding of the work.
Aside A comment made by a character intended to be heard by the audience, but not any other characters
MACBETH [Aside] The Prince of Cumberland! that is a step On which I must fall down, or else o'erleap, For in my way it lies. Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires: The eye wink at the hand; yet let that be, Which the eye fears, when it is done, to see. (Act I Scene IV)
Tension Friction between opposing forces or conflicting elements in literature.
Natural elements conflicting Conflict between Banquo and Macbeth over action to be taken on prophesies
Iambic Pentameter A metrical pattern in poetry which consists of five iambic feet per line. An iamb is an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable
Used for royal or intelligent character. Note that Lady Macbeth stops speaking in iambic pentameter after she goes insane.
Elision The omission of a sound between two words In a play, it is the omission of an action that is assumed to have taken place
Murder of Duncan - puts the focus back on the consequences and guilt over it, and not on the murder itself. Allows the audience to develop a more terrible idea of the nature of the murder than would be if it were shown.
Internal Conflict An issue within a character that need to be resolved
Macbeth’s internal conflict over his ambition and goodness - he cannot decide for himself because there is too much kindness in him to allow him to perform an evil deed with hesitation
External Conflict An issue in the environment or surroundings that needs to be resolved
The conflict in nature, seen in the weather
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Scene-by-Scene Notes
Act 1
Scene 1
Sets the tone of the play using the metonymy of thunder, lightning and rain and the
reference to the supernatural by calling the women witches. They do not specify their
purpose in speaking to Macbeth, creating suspense and mystery. Adds to the thrill of the
play and draws the interest of the audience. This scene foretells the mood and links to the
main idea of the human struggle against the forces of evil. The number three also has
supernatural significance, such as the fact that there are three witches.
The witches’ speech rhymes to give the idea of them casting a spell, and affecting fate.
The theme of the play is established in the line “fair is foul, and foul is fair.” This shows the
discrepancy between appearance and reality.
This paradox is also seen in the line “When the battle’s lost and won,” emphasising how
difficult it is to discern the truth.
The last two lines are a rhyming couplet. This signals the end of the scene and leaves the
audience on a climatic note.
Scene 2
This scene gives the audience the first real introduction to Macbeth’s character, showing
him to be valiant in battle and loyal to his country. He is loved by the king and has potential
for greatness, making his eventual downfall tragic. This continues the dramatic build-up
before Macbeth actually enters the stage.
Similes of eagles, lions to describe their valour, in contrast to the sparrows or hares
of the Norwegians.
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The audience sees that King Duncan is a poor judge of character, highlighted by his betrayal
by the Thane of Cawdor. It also shows that there is trouble in Scotland, with many people
dissatisfied. King Duncan becomes a figurehead of order. However, his inability to read
people makes him an unfit king, leading to rebellion.
The association between Macbeth and Banquo is established.
Scene 3
The audience meets the witches for the second time, when they give the prophesies to
Macbeth and Banquo. These predictions are immediately supported when Macbeth learns
that he has been made Thane of Cawdor.
The opening lines, describing a sailor, represent the fate of Macbeth. Captain = king. Note
the line “Sleep shall neither night nor day Hang upon his pent-house lid” - reference to
“Macbeth has murdered sleep.” The metaphor of the storm also foreshadows the confusion
that would be caused by Macbeth’s defiance of nature.
The witches should not be trusted - evil
The idea of confusion over the truth is highlighted by the greetings of Macbeth and Banquo.
The men cannot determine what the witches are, yet the witches immediately recognise
them and name them with their future roles.
Unpredictability is also shown in the lines: “Lesser than Macbeth, and greater” “Not
so happy, yet much happier” “Thou shalt get kings, though thou be none”
Note Macbeth’s fear - “horrible imaginings” - he retains an element of goodness. He
tries to fight his ambition to become king and dismiss the prophesies.
The contrast between Macbeth and Banquo is seen through their different reactions to the
prophesies. Whilst Banquo immediately dismisses them as evil, Macbeth is more willing to
believe them. He sees the recent news as reason to trust them, and is hopeful that the
prophesy of becoming king would come true. Banquo does not have as much ambition.
Ambition begins to grow in Macbeth
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Reference to the witches line “So foul and fair a day I have not seen”
Dramatic Irony - the audience knows that Macbeth has already been made Thane of
Cawdor
Scene 4
Macbeth’s desire to be king is highlighted by his disappointment at the naming of Malcolm
as heir to the throne. He indicates that he would be willing to take fate into his own hands,
saying “The Prince of Cumberland! that is a step On which I must fall down, or else
o'erleap.” His ambition is being developed.
Note that the line “Stars, hide your fires; let not light see my black deep desires” is
mirrored by Lady Macbeth in the next scene, showing the close relationship between
husband and wife.
Further emphasis that Duncan is not a good judge of character and is weak. “There's
no art to find the mind's construction in the face” - dramatic irony of Macbeth’s
entrance at that point.
Development of the relationship between Duncan and Macbeth. Shows that
Macbeth would be a more powerful, strong and fitting leader than Duncan
Contrasting statements of stars from Duncan and Macbeth - juxtaposition
Banquo shows no jealousy of Macbeth over the throne
Scene 5
The audience is introduced to Lady Macbeth for the first time. In this scene, her dire
ambition, greed and dual personality are made clear. These are developed later at the
murder of Duncan and when Banquo’s ghost appears at the feast.
Note the omission of the prophesy about Banquo in the letter - shows that Macbeth
already fears it
There is juxtaposition between the attitudes of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. The audience is
invited to see that Macbeth is weaker and unwilling to take action, instead choosing
inaction, and to let the prophesy fulfil itself. Lady Macbeth highlights this in her remark “Yet
I do fear thy nature; it is too full o’ the milk of human kindness,” relating Macbeth’s attitude
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to a small child that is still dependent on its mother’s milk, and portraying him as weak. On
the other hand, Lady Macbeth is a powerful, dominating character, and expresses a
willingness to take extreme action. This is seen when she proclaims “unsex me here,”
showing that she desires to be free of everything that hinders her from reaching her goal
and following her ambitious drive. She almost controls Macbeth’s actions.
Note the link to Hamlet: “pour spirits in thine ear”
Importantly, the opening of the scene is a soliloquy, which allows all of Lady Macbeth’s
deepest thoughts and desires to be revealed to the audience, contributing to Shakespeare’s
characterisation of her. The audience also notes a dark, foreboding tone as Lady Macbeth
describes the unnatural action that she must take to sway Macbeth and help him claim the
throne.
Imagery of death and destruction
The audience sees that Macbeth must discard his good nature for him to be able to achieve
his goal of becoming king. However, they also see that as he loses this virtue, he is
weakened by it, and it becomes his downfall. On the other hand, Banquo maintains his
“royalty of nature” which gives him strength.
The change in Lady Macbeth’s attitude after the messenger re-enters highlights her dual
personality. She immediately loses the dark, sinister aspect and regains her composure.
The raven is a symbol used to create a dark, foreboding mood.
Other things to note:
Lady Macbeth’s diction reflects her ambition
The greetings Lady Macbeth gives - “all-hail” and “hereafter” are the same as the
ones used by the witches
During the dialogue between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, the half-line breaks add to
the drama and intensity of it, which is again used after the murder of King Duncan.
Recurring theme that feminine characteristics are weak
Alliteration of “murdering ministers” and “sightless substances”
Motif of light and dark - calling on the “blanket of the dark”
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The reversal of the gender roles between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, contributing
to the idea of nature being in upheaval. “Leave all the rest to me”
Use of metaphors: book, flower/serpent (Biblical allusion to Eve and the serpent)
Note that up until this scene, there was a pattern of Witch scene-Macbeth scene-Witch
scene-Macbeth scene. Since this should be a witch scene to complete the pattern, it shows
that, like the witches, Lady Macbeth acts as an agent of fate. Her soliloquy portrays an evil,
unnatural nature, like that of the witches. This reinforces the sinister nature of her speech,
and links it to the prophesies of the witches.
Scene 6
King Duncan’s speech is heavily ironic, commenting on the beauty of the castle: “This castle
hath a pleasant seat; the air Nimbly and sweetly recommends itself Unto our gentle senses,”
all the while Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are plotting his murder. He is under their power.
Audience feels sympathy for Duncan because of his weak, good nature.
The audience sees the development of Lady Macbeth’s dual nature with her formal
greetings and falsely welcoming tone as King Duncan enters.
The stage directions, such as the music, show the pomp and ceremony of the entrance of
King Duncan. It shows that King Duncan was well taken care of. Only scene with the
presence of daylight.
Scene 7
Macbeth gives a soliloquy that shows the audience that, although Macbeth desires to have
the throne, his mind is still confused over the prophesies. There is a great deal of repetition
in his speech, indicating a train of thought. He fears the earthly consequences of his actions.
Macbeth’s tragic flaw is revealed: his ambitious drive, which will lead him to commit the
murder and essentially seal his downfall. We also see that he is not entirely evil, but has a
conscience. We see that he is in a state of inaction, in contrast to Lady Macbeth, who is
driven and active.
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Similar to Hamlet’s soliloquy, Macbeth wonders about the consequences of murdering
Duncan. He already realises that the murder would cause an imbalance in nature “this even-
handed Justice Commends the ingredients of our poison'd chalice To our own lips”. He also
knows that he would not be well received as king, since the people loved Duncan.
Act 2
Scene 1
Macbeth speaks to Banquo about the prophesies, who states that he will only aid Macbeth
as long her can keep a clear conscience. Banquo is quite uneasy. He has remained loyal to
Duncan.
The appearance of the dagger indicates an apostrophe. Here, there is still an element of
doubt about the reality of the dagger, which contrasts to the appearance of Banquo later in
the play, where Macbeth merely accepts it, and does not question whether it could be his
imagination. Also links back to the initial encounter with the witches, where Macbeth also
questions their reality.
The sound of the bell ringing signals to Macbeth that it is time to murder. We see that
Macbeth has resolved to kill Duncan now.
Scene 2
Lady Macbeth is very tense as she awaits the news from Macbeth that he has done the
deed. She mentions that she could not have done it herself - “Had he not resembled My
father as he slept, I had done't.” The first sign of weakness in her. She will ultimately lose all
her strength.
Macbeth recounts to Lady Macbeth that he heard a cry of “Macbeth does murder sleep!”
This is reflected later when Lady Macbeth can no longer sleep because she goes insane from
the deeds. By going against nature, they have lost the ability to do sleep, which represents
peace of mind. They both become so wary of others and fearful for their positions that they
no longer feel secure.
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Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are still seen to be humane. They had to drink to
overcome their fears and realise their ambitions.
The sound of a shrieking owl is heard, which startles Lady Macbeth. This foreshadows her
breakdown later in the play, as it shows her confidence to be shallow.
Macbeth’s hallucination of the voice crying out shows that he is going insane. Relates
to appearance of dagger, and later Banquo’s ghost. He has lost his peace because of
the deed, and cannot reclaim it through sleep.
Tension develops between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
Motif of water in the play - “A little water clears us of this deed” - once again, linked to
when Lady Macbeth goes insane. Linked to Macbeth’s line “Will all great Neptune's ocean
wash this blood Clean from my hand?” and then Lady Macbeth’s line later in the play all the
perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand.” (Act V Scene I). It is ironic that Lady
Macbeth uses an understatement when she describes how little water is required to
cleanse them of their guilt
Blood is a symbol for guilt
Scene 3
The natural disturbances of the night reflect the turmoil that is caused by Macbeth’s
unnatural deed. There has been aq disruption to the natural order.
Irony: “O gentle lady” - Lady Macbeth had stripped herself of her gentle, feminine
qualities and became more evil, able to inspire Macbeth to perform unnatural deeds
The audience sees that Macduff is very loyal to Duncan, and that he believes in the Divine
Right of Kings
Beelzebub = devil. The porter is pretending to be the porter at hell’s gates.
The ramblings and puns of the porter provide comic relief after the intense, dark
scene of the murder
o Irony of many of his statements considering the murder had just taken place
Binary opposition of heaven and hell
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Lady Macbeth faints to distract everyone from Macbeth’s odd actions. She maintains her
composure and is working to support Macbeth in his ambitions.
Malcolm and Donalbain are already suspicious of Macbeth
Scene 4
More news of the unnatural events taking place on the night of Duncan’s murder are
revealed, adding to the theme of nature, showing that Macbeth has gone against nature
and the world is responding to it.
Malcolm and Donalbain are accused of murdering their father because they immediately
fled the country.
Macduff’s refusal to attend Macbeth’s coronation shows that he does not like the changes
that are taking place and does not trust Macbeth. He is trying to distance himself from
Macbeth. This is important later, as Macduff ultimately plots the attack on Macbeth to bring
him down.
Motif of darkness
Metaphors used throughout the scene - On Tuesday last, A falcon, towering in her
pride of place, Was by a mousing owl hawk'd at and kill'd” - Metaphor for the
murder of Duncan
Reference to animals - horses - adds to the theme of nature, showing the unnatural
act has caused imbalance and disorder in nature.
Horses eating each other reflects the conflict between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.
Act 3
Scene 1
The audience sees through Banquo’s soliloquy that he is beginning to suspect Macbeth of
the murder - “I fear, Thou play'dst most foully for't”.. However, he remains silent because
he hopes that the prophesies will also come true for him. He is becoming more concerned
about the witches prophesies, and is not taking action to stop Macbeth.
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He reveals to Macbeth of his intention to go out horse riding with his son, Fleance, and
would return for the feast.
Macbeth has begun to obsess over the witches’ prophesy for Banquo’s descendants, and
fears for his throne. We see that Macbeth is not comfortable being king. The prophesies
about Banquo have made him insecure and he fears that he will suffer the same fate as
Duncan. However, there is a change taking.
This scene shows development in Macbeth’s character, as the audience sees his ambition is
finally leading him to take control of his situation without the input of Lady Macbeth. This is
contributes to the theme of ambition in the text. Importantly, the audience sees that
despite his actions, Macbeth still receives no satisfaction even after he has obtained the
throne.
Macbeth employs murderers to kill Banquo and his son. During his speech to them, he tries
to convince them that they are doing well and are justified in killing him. He takes advantage
of their past experiences to make them hate Banquo and feel like they have been wronged
by him.
Scene 2
The audience begins to see that the unnatural deed has caused Macbeth and Lady Macbeth
to lose natural activity. However, Lady Macbeth’s dual character is highlighted once more as
she continues to hide her true feelings from others and act as though nothing is wrong.
Lady Macbeth’s soliloquy foreshadows her descent into madness, hinting at the ongoing
dissatisfaction their deeds have caused. Macbeth later speaks of the torment going on in his
mind over their actions and the guilt it caused.
We also see that Macbeth is acting more independently and without Lady Macbeth’s
promptings. He plans the murder of Banquo on his own. Their relationship is changing.
Biblical reference again to serpent and Eve - “We have scotch'd the snake, not kill'd
it”
Reference is made back to the witches through the imagery of Macbeth’s closing remarks.
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Scene 3
Banquo is murdered, but his son Fleance escapes. The audience realises that Macbeth, who
is already insecure and fearful over the prophesies, will not handle the news of Fleance’s
escape well.
Mysterious appearance of a third murderer
The audience sees that Macbeth no longer trusts anyone.
Scene 4
Macbeth gives the impression of being collected and confident before others,
demonstrating a similar dual personality as Lady Macbeth. Once the murderer enters, there
is a change in tone. Macbeth’s downfall begins when he learns that Fleance escaped. He is
no longer capable of maintaining the jovial appearance from before. Others see that he is
more concerned by the prophesies and his own guilt, and loses his composure and control.
The appearance of the ghost shows that Macbeth is still scared of Banquo and the prophesy
about his descendents. Unlike with all the other apparitions - the witches and the dagger -
Macbeth does not question whether the ghost is a figment of his own imagination, but
simply accepts it as real.
Macduff’s absence is noted, which is crucial for the rest of the play. Macduff will become
Macbeth’s nemesis and finally bring him down.
Note the reversal - at the beginning, the witches came to Macbeth. Now Macbeth is
going to them. This highlights his degeneration.
Scene 5
According to most scholars, this scene was not actually written by Shakespeare.
The witches know that Macbeth’s over-confidence will bring about his downfall “And you all
know, security Is mortals' chiefest enemy.” He relies too much on their prophesies.
Hecate is angry at the witches for not consulting her before they prophesied to Macbeth,
and will punish him as a result. Adds to the supernatural theme.
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Audience questions whether Macbeth’s downfall is a result of the curse, or his own
hamartia, ambition.
Scene 6
Lennox’s speech is filled with sarcasm. Its purpose is to show the attitude of Macbeth’s
subjects to him. He suspects Macbeth is guilty for the murders of Duncan and Banquo. He
and the lord want Malcolm to reclaim his birthright and end Macbeth’s tyranny.
The audience learns that Macduff is in England with Malcolm, building up an army to battle
Macbeth and bring him down.
Act 4
Scene 1
Metonymy of weather associated with the witches - the storm - dark and foreboding
Rhyme of their chanting, indicates a spell
In his visit to the witches, Macbeth receives false hope from the witches. They give new
predictions.
The change in Macbeth is seen through his diction. He is now more demanding of the
witches. He only becomes more confused by their seemingly contradictory prophesies.
Scene 2
Ross reassures Macduff’s wife, then leaves them. Lady Macduff is angry that her husband
has abandoned them. She tells her son that Macduff fled because he was a traitor, and was
killed for it, however the son does not believe her.
Love for her children - foil for Lady Macbeth
Macduff’s family are killed by murderers. This shows Macbeth’s total insecurity and descent
into evilness, as he is willing to kill Macduff’s innocent family.
Note the use of imagery of nature in this scene to describe circumstances in Scotland
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Scene 3
Malcolm is established as the worthy king of Scotland, showing that he is not deceived by
others and does not judge by appearances. He tests Macduff’s loyalty before he trusts him.
Note the symbolism of animals and colour
Reference to Lady Macbeth’s speech: “Nay, had I power, I should Pour the sweet
milk of concord into hell”
Use of hyperbole to describe how bad a king Malcolm would be
Ross informs Macduff of his family’s murder. Malcolm encourages Macduff to seek revenge
on Macbeth.
Contrast between king of England who is good, and saves lives, to Macbeth, who is
evil and is going about killing everyone
Act 5
Scene 1
Themes: Supernatural, good and evil
This scene shows development of Lady Macbeth’s character and her descent into madness.
Show the deterioration of her mind as a result of her guilt. Ironic as she told Macbeth that
they could easily wipe away their guilt. She is unable to sleep because her guilt prevents her
from having the peace of mind that comes with sleep. She has a series of flashbacks,
summarising the important events of the play.
Holding the paper - reading the letter from Macbeth
“A great perturbation in nature” - the deed went against the natural order
Holding the candle - wants to go back to the light. Initially she asked for the light to
leave to allow her to do evil things, but now she seeks for the purity she had before.
“Look, how she rubs her hands” - trying to wash her hands clean of the blood motif
of guilt). Her sleepwalking is a consequence of the moral disorder she has caused
“The thane of Fife had a wife: where is she now?” - Irony - she is dead. Lady Macbeth
was not involved, Macbeth cut her off from him and acted without her.
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“all the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand. Oh, oh, oh!” - Refers to
Macbeth speaking of Neptune’s oceans - hyperbole - shows that they cannot be
cleared of their unnatural deeds.
The gentlewoman is told to keep a close eye on Lady Macbeth, foreshadowing her eventual
suicide.
Scene 2
The audience learns that military preparations are begin made against Macbeth. Dramatic
irony is being created - meeting at Birnam Wood, as prophesied by the witches.
The people are seeking their revenge on Macbeth for the disruptions he has caused to the
natural order. They intend to purge the country of the damage and disorder that Macbeth
has caused.
This scene builds the tension for impending battle.
Scene 3
Short scenes give a sense of events moving quickly, showing Macbeth rapid demise.
Macbeth is clearly more self-confident now, which draws the audience’s attention to
Hecate’s prophesy that confidence would be his enemy and downfall. He has become a
confident tyrant. Macbeth is becoming more insane. He also realises that he is losing favour
with the people. He knows he will never be happy and satisfied with royalty because he
does not have the respect of his people.
Macbeth tells the doctor to cure his wife, but is told there is nothing to be done, and the
doctor leaves. He no longer wishes to serve Macbeth and hopes to see him fall.
Scene 4
The prophesy of Birnam Wood is coming true, but not in the manner that Macbeth
expected. Macbeth realises that the fair prophesies are becoming foul and he has lost
almost everything. Only one prophesy remains to be fulfilled.
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“Cousins, I hope the days are near at hand That chambers will be safe.” Reference to
murder of Duncan, and the theme of sleep. Chamber = bedroom
Macbeth no longer has enough support to procure an army to fight against Macduff. This
adds to the theme of loyalty, showing that Macbeth’s unnatural deeds have caused him to
lose the loyalty of those around him, who have instead joined Malcolm, the rightful and
natural leader of Scotland.
The inevitability of Macbeth’s downfall is now clear.
Scene 5
Stage directions - drum and colours - builds tension, indicating the impending battle, which
the audience knows will be Macbeth’s demise.
Macbeth remains confident in the prophesies. This is shown through his formal language
o No exclamation marks
o Long sentences
Macbeth comments that screams and other frightening sounds no longer disturb him. The
scream adds to the tension. This contrasts Lady Macbeth’s sensitivity at the beginning of the
play when she jumps at the shriek of an owl. Evilness has taken over him.
Even at the report of Lady Macbeth’s suicide, Macbeth does not seem to care anymore. He
has descended so far that he is past feeling.
Macbeth seems to have lost his purpose. He no longer values life and feels like he has
nothing to live for.
Upon hearing that the wood is moving, Macbeth’s syntax changes, showing his despair as
another prophesy is fulfilled contrary to his idea. The audience sees more emotion in him -
more exclamation marks and broken by em dashes, indicating panic. He realises there is
nowhere for them to go. He finally expresses his regret for his actions and wishes the world
would return to its natural order. Reference to the sun contributes to the theme of light and
dark.
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Scene 6
Drum and colours - rising tension
Short scene - further sense of impending doom for Macbeth
The intentions of Malcolm and Macduff are clear: they will fight to the death to destroy
Macbeth.
The respect that Siward has for Malcolm and Macduff is clear, showing the loyalty the
people have to the rightful leaders.
Harbingers - show that fate is about to catch up with Macbeth
Scene 7
Nature imagery - bird, bear. Macbeth cannot do anything now - he must simply
await his destiny.
Macbeth still relies on the final prophesy to save him, resting all his confidence on it. He
gloats that Young Siward was “born of woman.” He sees the defeat of Young Siward as
confirmation of the prophesy.
Personification of fate and fortune
Macduff clearly wants revenge on Macbeth for the murder of his family. In an ironic twist,
Macduff takes the stage to battle Macbeth, who was not born of a woman.
Scene 8
Macbeth is already contemplating suicide when Macduff challenges him. He makes
reference to the ongoing theme of heaven and hell. At first, Macduff appears to be losing.
Macduff reveals that he was not born of woman, to Macbeth’s dismay. Macbeth returns to
more cowardly speech as he realises that he no longer has any prophesies to rely on.
Macbeth is killed by Macduff, who drags the body offstage.
Malcolm is named king of Scotland and proclaims honour to Young Siward for his service.
Old Siward is proud of his son, and refuses to ask for more honour than is necessary.
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Personification of grace
The natural order is seen to have returned to Scotland now that the tyrant is dead and the
rightful king is on the throne.
“time and place” - everything in the right order