Name______________Macbeth Essay Preparation English 112
Your final evaluation for Macbeth will be to write a critical essay on the play. In preparation
for this, you will think about these questions:
What is the most tragic aspect of the play?
For instance:
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The fall of Macbeth who could have been a great man.
Scotland’s descent into war and chaos.
The deaths of innocent people like Macduff’s family.
The death of a good King in Duncan.
The betrayal of a friendship in Macbeth’s killing of Banquo.
The destruction of a loving relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth.
The overwhelming guilt leading to Lady Macbeth’s insanity and death.
Et Cetera
Who or what is to blame for this tragedy?
For instance:
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The fickleness of fate.
The evil equivocations (misleading statements) of the witches.
The ambition of Macbeth.
The prompting of Lady Macbeth.
The naïve trusting nature of Duncan.
The fleeing of Macduff and/or Malcolm.
The staying of Banquo.
Et Cetera
Your answer to these questions will be the foundation for your thesis. Once you have decided
what your angle will be, write it out clearly, and concisely in the space bellow.
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Name______________Macbeth Essay Preparation English 112
Now that you know what you will be proving, you need to articulate your arguments. In your
own words, write out 3 points that prove your case:
1. ____________________________________________________________________________
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2. ____________________________________________________________________________
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3. ____________________________________________________________________________
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Next, you will need to gather precise evidence, directly from the text. Find three quotations
from the play that support your arguments (you may chop for space):
1. Act _____ scene ______ lines ________: __________________________________________
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2. Act _____ scene ______ lines ________: __________________________________________
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3. Act _____ scene ______ lines ________: __________________________________________
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