The Tragedy ofMACBETHBy William Shakespeare

Tragedy: Tragedy: in broad terms, tragedy in

literature, especially drama, in which actions and events turn out disastrously for the main character or characters.

Tragic Hero: Tragic Hero: A tragic hero is the central

character in a drama who is dignified or noble. However, the tragic hero posses a defect, or tragic flaw, that brings about or contributes to his or her downfall. This flaw may be poor judgment, pride, weakness, or an excess of an admirable quality. The tragic hero recognizes his or her own flaw and its consequences but only after it is too late to change the course of events.

History of the Play: The play Macbeth was probably written

and first performed in 1606. It is clearly designed to garnish favor

with King James I…as it deals with witches – a topic he was very interested in…as well as issues of succession.

References The Gunpowder Plot – an attempt to kill King James I in 1605.

First published in the First Folio in 1623.

Macbeth Character Chart Macbeth Character Chart

Macbeth Act One – Scene 1: Characters: the three witches Summary: This short scene establishes the

supernatural element in the play and introduces the three witches – or “weird sisters.” During this disorderly scene, the witches reveal their plan to meet Macbeth!

Important Quote: Fair is foul, and foul is fair. (1:1:10)

Figurative Language: Line 8 – Personification: “Paddock calls.” – A toad is

given the human ability to call or talk.

Macbeth Act One: Scene 2 Characters: Duncan, Malcolm, Sergeant, Lennox, Ross Summary: After hearing a report about the battle

against the traitors (Macdonwald and Sweno, the King of Norway) which includes an account of Macbeth’s glorious and brave feats on the battlefield, Duncan orders that the title of “Thane of Cawdor”and its property, which currently belongs to the traitor, be given to Macbeth.

Important/ Significant Quotes: Line 67 – “What he hast lost, noble Macbeth hat won.

Figurative Language: Simile- Line 32-35 “Dismayed not this our captains, Macbeth and Banquo? Yes; As sparrows eagles, or the hare the lion.”