Macbeth Introduction and Act I

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 6

Shakespeare was born in

1. London
2. Stratford-upon-Avon
3. Oxford
4. Cambridge

What’s the name of the “Shakespeare theatre’ in London?

1. The World Theatre
2. The Globe Theatre
3. The Old Shakespeare Theatre

Approximately how many plays did Shakespeare write?

1. 8
2. 38
3. 108
4. 67

When did he live?

1. 1498-1566
2. 1564-1616
3. 1849-1895
4. 1598-1673

What were some notable features of the theatre during Shakespeare's time?

When was Macbeth written?

1. 1602
2. 1606
3. 1615
4. 1628

Who was king when Macbeth was performed?

1. James
2. Charles
3. Henry
4. William

Act I: Exposition

Read this summary of Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

Now watch Act I and discuss the following questions in groups of 3-4:

• At the beginning of the story, who is fighting against whom? Why?
  
• What can we say about these characters so far: Banquo, the Thane of Cawdor, the Prince of Cumberland, Duncan, the Thane of Glamis, and Lady Macbeth?
  
• How are the concepts of chivalry and manhood represented so far?
  
• What connections can you make between the story so far and Shakespeare’s real world?

If you need help, read the detailed summaries of the original play here.

Watch the beginning of the movie (1971 Polansky version) until 36:15

What do the witches prophesy?

1. Macbeth will be king and his sons will inherit the throne
2. Banquo will be king but Macbeth will be much happier
3. Macbeth will be king but Banquo will murder him
4. Macbeth will be king but Banquo's children will be kings

What does lady Macbeth resolve to do?

1. Talk to the three witches
2. Kill Duncan herself
3. Whatever necessary to help Macbeth become king
4. Protect Duncan from Macbeth's bloodlust

Macbeth is torn between being loyal to Duncan and loyal to his wife. Explain this. What does loyal to each of these persons look like?

Another important theme of "Macbeth" is: free will (versus fate).
Explain how this theme is established in the very first scene of the play when the witches appear.

What drives Macbeth to kill King Duncan most? Pick from "ambition" "the witches prediction" and "Lady Macbeth" and explain your answer.