Shakespearean Tragedy
It is a story of exceptional calamity which concerns itself with a character's movement from
prosperity to catastrophe; it is a change in fortune. The center of tragic impression is a feeling of
waste—of goodness being wasted. The conclusion is sorrowful or disastrous and excites pity or
terror.
Shakespearean Dramatic Structure
I. Exposition (Opening of a play)
- introduces the main character, circumstances, relation to one another, their positions in
life, etc.
II The Rising Action
- the fortunes of the principal character or characters are on the increase.
III Climax (or turning point)
- this marks the highest point in the character's fortunes and the beginning of a decline.
IV Falling Action
- the fortunes of the principal character decline and those of his opponents grow in
strength.
V Denouement
- outcome of the action.
Form of Shakespearean Tragedy
-represents a conflict which terminates in a catastrophe.
1. Exposition - sets forth the state of affairs out of which the conflict arises. (Act I)
2. Conflict - deals with the beginning, the growth and vicissitudes of the conflict. (Act II, III, IV)
3. Catastrophe - the final section of the tragedy showing the issue of the conflict. (Act V)
Introduction to Macbeth
Historical Background:
- 1030 Scotland.
- kingship was not hereditary. (Tanistry is the Gaelic and Irish custom of electing the "worthiest
kinsman," compared to the English system of primogeniture, in which the eldest son held the
right of succession).
- Shakespeare has changed the historical Macbeth to suit his purpose which was most likely to
please the ruling James I and to entertain his audience.
- important concepts to Elizabethans:
providence - God provides.
fortune - evidence of providence represented by a wheel.
chance - random incidents manipulated by fortune.
- regicide was seen as a violation of God's ordered universe and affected the natural order of the
universe.
The play may be viewed on four levels:
1. as a moral lesson - crime doesn't pay
2. as entertainment
3. as a psychological study - the affect of uncontrolled ambition.
4. as poetry and imagination
ACT I
(Foundation is laid for murderous plot to gain the crown)
Scene 1 (a desert place)
Title : Evil at Work
Chief interest : the evil intentions of the witches.
Mood of the play is set : "Fair is foul, and foul is fair."
- inversion of moral values.
1. Describe the setting and how the author suggests that the play will advance in a medium of
evil.
Scene 2 (in a military camp)
Title : A Triumphant General and a Gentle King
Chief interest : the heroic stature of Macbeth, and how it is built up.
Quote:
What he hath lost, noble Macbeth hath won. (1.2. 67)
1. Why is it important to show that Macbeth is a successful warrior of great daring and strength?
Scene 3 ( on a heath)
Title : Bright Promises
Chief interest : Macbeth's mind and heart throughout the disturbing promises made to him by the
witches.
This scene gives us the motivation of Macbeth by the promise of the witches; Macbeth in a
mood of indecision; the contrast between Macbeth and Banquo; and the malignant powers of
the witches.
Quotes:
Macbeth's "asides". (1.3. begin 124, 137-152, 155-6, 160-1)
And oftentimes, to win us to out harm,
The instruments of darkness tell us truths,
Win us with honest trifles, to betray's
In deepest consequence. (1.3. 122-26)
If chance will have me king, why, chance may crown me,
Without my stir. (1.3. 143)
1. Describe the powers of the witches.
2. What are the three prophecies the witches make for Macbeth? for Banquo?
3. How does Macbeth react to the witches' prophecies? (1.3. 51-52)
4. Describe Macbeth's reaction when part of the prophecy comes true.
5. What is Banquo's warning to Macbeth? (1.3. 120-126)
6. (1.3. 128-142)
a) What is Macbeth's ambition?
b) What does he imagine to himself and what effect does it have on him?
Scene 4 (In the palace)
Title : Rewards
Chief interest : Macbeth in his thinking and intention.
Malcolm's appointment as heir fuels Macbeth's temptation to do the deed.
Quote:
There's no art/ To find the mind's construction in the face.
(1.4. 12-13)
1. What is the character of Duncan?
2. What is the dramatic irony in line 14?
3. What is the dramatic significance of (a) the death of Cawdor and (b) the appointment of
Malcolm as heir?
A note on the Soliloquy
The soliloquy in the Shakespearean sense is talking to oneself, generally a "speech" of
some length and dignity. The speaker is alone on the stage, whereas in an "aside" there are others
present.
A soliloquy may serve one or more of several purposes: reveal the thoughts, mood or
intention of the speaker; disclose his character or the characters of others; supply atmosphere for
the occasion; allow for the passing of time; contain poetic or philosophic thoughts, etc. .
Scene 5 (In Macbeth's castle at Inverness)
Title : Lady Macbeth and the Ministers of Evil
Chief interest : Lady Macbeth and how she will influence her husband.
This scene shows how Lady Macbeth is resolved to see the murder committed even with the
help of the spirits of evil to help her; and an analysis of Macbeth's character: uncertain.
Quotes:
Lady Macbeth's soliloquys:
Glamis thou art, and Cawdor, and shalt be . . . (1.5. 14-28)
The raven himself is hoarse . . . (1.5. 41-57)
. . . Come, you spirits
That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here
And fill me, from the crown to the toe, top-full
Of direst cruelty! make thick my blood,
Stop up the access and passage to remorse,
That no compunctious visitings of nature
Shake my fell purpose, nor keep peace between
The effect and it! (1.5. 43-50)
. . . look like the innocent flower,
But be the serpent under it. (1.5. 72-73)
Scene 6 (Before the castle)
Title : The King and the House of Death
Chief interest : the dramatic irony in the situation, and the contrast between the trusting, gracious
King and the lady (flower and serpent).
Quote:
This castle hath a pleasant seat; the air
Nimbly and sweetly recommends itself
Unto our gentle senses. (1.6. 1-3)
1. Explain the dramatic irony of Duncan's arrival at Macbeth's castle.
2. Can Duncan be partly responsible for Macbeth's decision to murder him?
Scene 7 (In Macbeth's castle)
Title : Wife versus Husband
Chief interest : the thoughts and feelings of Macbeth, until he yields.
This scene gives us excellent dramatic conflict between Macbeth and his wife; personal
conflict within Macbeth; the direction of the play's action (murder); and suspense.
Macbeth's Soliloquy:
If it were done, when 'tis done, then 'twere done well . . .
(1.7. 1-28)
False face must hide what the false heart doth know. (1.7.93)
1. Consider the conflicts that Macbeth has: one with himself and one with his wife.
ACT II
The Murder of Duncan
Scene 1 (In the castle)
Title : Atmosphere for Murder
Chief interests : How this atmosphere is created ; and the tortured mind of Macbeth.
Macbeth is intoxicated with excitement and ready for the unnatural deed.
Macbeth's Soliloquy :
Is this a dagger which I see before me, . . .
1. What is your opinion of Banquo?
Scene 2 (In the castle)
Title : Murder
Chief interest : Macbeth's terrible experiences and thoughts (also his wife's).
This acts gives us the murder of Duncan; keen suspense and dramatic action; Macbeth's
recoiling from the deed and growing hysteria; and some softness on the part of Lady
Macbeth.
Quotes:
Lady Macbeth's soliloquys:
That which hath made them drunk hath made me bold . . .
These deeds must not be thought
After these ways; so, it will make us mad.
Macbeth's soliloquys:
Whence is that knocking? . . .
Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood
Clean from my hand?
To know my deed, 'twere best not know myself.
1. What factors make this scene very dramatic?
2. Discuss Macbeth as murderer.
Scene 3 (In Macbeth's castle)
Title : Murder Discovered and its Results.
Chief interests : the change in Macbeth and in Lady Macbeth; and the attitude of others.
This scene gives us humor and "relief" in the porter scene; the murder of the two grooms; the
discovery of the murdered Duncan, a new, important character, Macduff; the escape of
Malcolm and Donalbain; the fainting of Lady Macbeth; and a Macbeth now resolute and
taking the lead.
Quotes:
Macbeth: 'Twas a rough night.
Malcolm: Why do we hold our tongues
That most may claim this argument for ours?
1. What does the porter episode contribute?
2. What things in Macbeth's words and actions would arouse the suspicions of those present?
3. Does Lady Macbeth really faint or does she merely pretend to do so?
Scene 4 (Outside the castle)
Title : Worse to Come
Chief interest : What will the future be for Macbeth and Scotland?
This scene gives us a feeling of coming ill for Macbeth and Scotland; the information that
Macbeth has reached his goal of the crown; some indication that Macduff is suspicious of
Macbeth, and out of harmony with him; and Shakespeare's use of nature to harmonize with,
and foreshadow events.
Quotes:
Ross:
Ah, good father,
Thou see'st, the heavens, as troubled with man's act,
Threaten his bloody stage.
Macduff:
Well, may you see things well done there: adieu
Lest our old robes sit easier than our new!
1. How, in the this scene, does Shakespeare foreshadow the future?
2. How is the reader made to feel that Macduff will be Macbeth's chief opponent?
Act III
The Murder of Banquo
Scene 1 (In the palace)
Title : Plot against Banquo
Chief interest : The deterioration of Macbeth's mind throughout this scene.
This scene gives us Macbeth and his lady established as sovereigns; Banquo's interest in the
kingship; and Macbeth's fear of Banquo and the plot to murder him in order to feel secure
(Fleance must be murdered too).
Quotes:
Banquo's soliloquy:
"Thou hast it now . . ."
Macbeth's soliloquy: "To be thus, is nothing . . ."
1. Paraphrase both soliloquys.
2. Why and how is Macbeth proceeding against Banquo?
Scene 2 (The palace)
Title : Dissillusionment, Remorse and New Evil
Chief interest : The mind and conscience of Lady Macbeth and of her husband.
This scene gives us two unhappy, disillusioned people: Macbeth and his wife; two speeches
by Macbeth rich with his poetry and imagination; a reminder that Banquo is next for death;
and Macbeth going deeper into crime and evil.
Quotes:
Lady Macbeth's soliloquy: Nought's had, all's spent. . .
Macbeth: Things bad begun make strong themselves by ill.
(a fatal philosophy)
1. Describe the mental and emotional state of Macbeth, and the attitude to each other of husband
and wife.
Scene 3 (Outside the Palace)
Title : The Murder of Banquo
Chief interest : To understand why this scene, with the following one, forms the turning point of
the play.
This scene gives us the escape of Fleance (leading to the turning point of the play); Macbeth's
success in killing Banquo, a mysterious third murderer; and dramatic action.
1. What factors make this scene dramatic?
Scene 4 (The banquet hall)
Title : Banquet and Crisis
Chief interest : The events, chiefly within Macbeth, which make this scene the turning point in
the play.
This scene gives us the crisis or turning point in the play; noticeable deterioration in
Macbeth; knowledge of growing unrest in Scotland; the widening of the rift between
Macbeth and Macduff; contrast in the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth; the
influence of the supernatural; and Macbeth's fatal desision to consult the witches.
Quotes:
Lady Macbeth: What! quite unmann'd in folly?
Macbeth: Why, so; being gone,/ I am a man again.
Macbeth: Strange things I have in head, that will to hand,
Which must be acted ere they may be scann'd.
1. Why is the escape of Fleance (along with the banquet scene) considered the climax or turning
point of the play?
2. What deterioration in character (personality, will) does Macbeth undergo in this scene?
3. Contrast the behaviour of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in this scene.
Scene 5 (A heath)
Title : The Witches' Plan
Chief interest : The witches' plan to ruin Macbeth
Note : Many are of the opinion that this scene was not written by Shakespeare.
Quote:
Hecate: He shall spurn fate, scorn death, and bear
His hopes 'bove wisdom, grace, and fear;
And, you all know, security
Is mortals' chiefest enemy.
Scene 6 (In the palace)
Title : The Scots lords Against Macbeth
Chief interest : The feelings of Lennox, of the second lord, and the King of England towards
Macbeth.
This scene gives us the impending war against Macbeth by the Scottish lords, by England,
and Macduff; Macduff as the future leader; and Malcolm ready to claim his position as king.
Quote:
Lennox: Things have been strangely borne.
1. Considering scenes 5 and 6, what future is awaiting Macbeth?
Act IV
The Murder of the Macduffs
Scene 1 ( In a cavern)
Title : Apparitions that deceive; the escape of Macduff.
Chief interest : the sayings of the apparitions, and the significance of these sayings.
These scene gives us Macbeth now at the "break-up" (furious, defiant, reckless, cruel,
irrational); two important assurances, and one warning - the three calculated to destroy
Macbeth; the knowlege that Banquo's heirs will succeed Macbeth; the escape of Macduff
from the holocaust which will overwhelm his family; Macbeth adopting a course of
unlimited, irrational slaughter; and strong and unusual drama in the use of the supernatural.
Quote:
Macbeth (aside):
From this moment
The very firstlings of my heart shall be
The firstling of my hand.
Scene 2 (In Macduff's castle)
Title : The Murder of Lady Macduff and Her Children
Chief interest : The pathos of the Macduffs and the blood-lust of Macbeth.
This scene gives us the fulfulling of Macbeth's purpose to annihilate the Macduffs (Macduff
himself has escaped); Macbeth at his worst, as we would suppose, in making war upon
women and children; a good deal of pathos, and a brief passage of wit; readiness on the
reader's part to see retribution overtake Macbeth; and a scene in strong contrast to those we
have so far met.
Quote:
Lady Macduff:
I have done no harm. But, I remember now
I am in this earthly world, where to do harm
Is often laudable; to do good, sometime
Accounted dangerous folly.
Scene 3 (In England, before the King's palace)
Title : Powers gather against Macbeth (England, Scotland, Malcolm, Macduff)
Chief interest : To note that Malcolm has become mature - capable leader.
Quote:
Malcolm:
What I believe I'll wail,
What know believe, and what I can redress,
As I shall find the time to friend, I will.
Though all things foul would wear the brows of grace,
Yet grace must still look so.
Act V
Retribution
Scene 1 (A room in the castle at Dunsinane)
Title: Sleepwalking Scene
Chief interest: The anguish of Lady Macbeth.
This scene gives us Lady Macbeth "at the end of the road"; and pathos.
Quotations:
Lady Macbeth: Out, damned spot! out I say! . . . Hell is murky.
Doctor: More needs she the divine than the physician.
1. What is the pathos in this scene?
2. How does this scene contrast to the rest of the play?
Scene 2 (Near Dunsinane)
Title : The Confident Scottish Forces
Chief Interest : What will be the outcome? For Macbeth or against him?
This scene tells us that Scotland has risen against Macbeth; that his former supporters are
deserting him, among them Angus and Lennox; and that Birnam Wood of the prophecy is to
be the meeting place of the two armies. Macbeth seems to be losing control of his followers.
Scene 3 (In Dunsinane castle)
Title : Macbeth in Distraction
Chief interest : To follow Macbeth through his changing feelings.
This scene gives us Macbeth disintegrating, (unable to think clearly and resolve firmly); Lady
Macbeth beyond remedy; and the implication of complete defection from Macbeth.
Quotations:
Macbeth: And that which should accompany old age,
As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends,
I must not look to have;
Doctor:
Therein the patient
Must minister to himself.
1. What are Macbeth's regrets? Is change possible? Why not?
Scene 4 (near Dunsinane)
Title: Birnam Wood and the Enemy
Note: These short scenes are called "Parallel scenes". Scenes 2, 4, and 6 show the English
and Scottish forces; 3, 5, and 7 show Macbeth.
Here we see the partial fulfilment of the witches' prophecy.
Siward: Thoughts speculative their unsure hopes relate,
But certain issue strokes must arbitrate;
Scene 5 (Within Dunsinane castle)
Title: Verdict: Life is a tale told by an idiot
Chief interest: To grasp as much of Macbeth's feelings as we can.
This scene begins with hope that quickly fade to complete despair. It shows us Macbeth,
bankrupt within and without; the death of Lady Macbeth; Macbeth's view of life and his
complete frustration, failure and emptiness: his life is over at this point.
Key Soliloquy: Macbeth's pronouncement on life with poetic metaphors.
Macbeth: She should have died hereafter . . .
Life's but a walking shadow . . .
Signifying nothing.
1. What is the depth of the inner tragedy of Macbeth?.
Scene 6 (A plain in front of Dunsinane castle)
Title and content : Battle joined and orders given.
Scene 7 (On the plain)
Title: Retribution (for Macbeth) and Restoration (for Malcolm and others).
Chief interest: Shakespeare's ending: retribution, restoration, and promise of calm.
This final scene gives us the retribution of Macbeth (by Macduff) and Lady Macbeth (apparent
suicide); rewards to loyals: Macduff gets his revenge and his property back; restoration:
Malcolm receives the throne which Macbeth had usurped; and the final calm after the storm.