Macbeth
Macbeth is a Shakespearean Tragedy that takes place in Scotland.
CharactersKing Duncan
Malcolm Donalbain Macbeth Lady Macbeth Banquo Macduff Lady Macduff Fleance Siward Ross Three Withces Minor Parts THEMESAMBITION-
This is a theme that is most definitely explored in both play and movie. While some argue Macbeth's ambition was forced upon him by Lady Macbeth, others disagree, believing ambition is a trait individuals are born with. Macbeth, so ambitious in his desire to become King, kills almost everyone around him including the family of his best friend. Macbeth's defeats act as fuel for his ambition as he begins to feel invincible in what he can achieve. Macbeth seconds his reign as King to his personal ambition, it is this very act that see's the death of him. POWER -The concept of power is very interesting in Macbeth. Taking into account the contextual background to the time the play was written, beliefs and the 'power of God' were extremely relevant. Under the concept 'The Divine Right of Kings,' power was dealt by the God's and he who had carried power and control was at the discretion of the Gods. Macbeth, by going against this natural will is essentially 'playing God' and according to the myths, he who plays god was messing with the authorities far out of his reach - consequences were to entail. THE DEPICTION OF WOMEN - Shakespeare's Macbeth stunningly depicts women and the female mind. Lady Macbeth, whilst supporting Macbeth in her best interests appears to push the boundaries as she's submerged in the person she loves. When it all goes wrong, Lady Macbeth keeps a strong front whilst unbeknownst, she's crumbling on the inside. In her efforts to repress her feelings of guilt and anxiety, Lady Macbeth comes to the realisation that she simply cannot control her guilty conscience and unfortunately, kills herself. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying all women kill themselves, but I am expressing my belief in the mask women so often put on. Women, as a whole, are stereotyped in being somewhat over controlling and are constantly aiming to please others before themselves. Lady Macbeth, I believe confuses her desires with the desires of those around her. What was the driving force behind her forcefulness in ensuring Macbeth became King? THE SUPERNATURAL-Including the Three Witches, the concept of prophecies, illusions, visions, ghosts and 'floating daggers' This theme is based heavily on personal interpretation. Those willing to open up to the ideas and submerge themselves in the play are more likely to enjoy and follow along. Those carrying a naive outlook, disallowing themselves to let go and step outside their beliefs or comfort zones are less likely to grasp the plot. The idea is also based upon the idea of fate. Fate whether it be the common saying everything happens for a reason or fate that is at the hands of the God(s). Is Macbeth being haunted by ghosts or simple a guilty conscience? Modern uses of MacbethModern re-enactment of Macbeth Act IV Scene I with translations.
Act 1 Scene 2
Act 1 scene 3
They quote Lady Macbeth - Act I Scene VII - "Screw your courage to the sticking-place"
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Themes and Motifs
Plot
Video Interpretations of MacbethACT I SCENE I
Act I Scene V
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