Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Critical Essay Plan
Choose a character from a play you have studied who is destroyed
by a fatal flaw. Clearly outline the nature of the flaw and discuss
the effects of it.
Paragraph 1 A character who is destroyed by a fatal flaw is
Macbeth. The flaw that destroys him is ambition which also has
disastrous consequences for other characters.
I have no spur ….1.7 ll25-27
Outline Macbeth’s soldierly qualities. Use quotes. Show that he has
a conscience. Show how difficult he finds it to decide to kill the
King. Explain Lady Macbeth’s role.
Paragraph 2 Show how after killing the King he regrets doing so.
How he plans the murder of Banquo and Fleance without the
support of Lady Macbeth. Read over your notes to find quotes that
show an increasing brutality in his actions. What is his motive for
killing Banquo?
Paragraph 3 His vow to return to the witches. What does this tell
us about his moral decline?
The decision to kill Macduff’s wife and children is a lowpoint. Why?
Paragraph 4 Macbeth’s decision to remain in the castle and fight
‘with harness on his back’ This reminds us of how brave he was and
by how much he has declined. Consequences of his actions: death
of Banquo, Lady Macbeth, Macduff’s wife and children and
Macbeth himself.
Paragraph 5 Conclusion : a potentially great man brought down by
a tragic flaw. Once the forces of evil are unleashed then one
murder leads on to further bloodshed. Order is restored but at a
great price.