A2 English Lit: Macbeth, Act 1

Scene 1

Introduction of the witches pose several questions for the audience: What are they planning? Who is Macbeth? What do they want from him?
Enigmatic opening: use of pathetic fallacy as the witches enter.
Rhythmic language, deliberate form: use of chants links in with the supernatural theme
Use of weather- sinister setting.

Scene 2

Captain glorifies not only Macbeth, but glorifies war.
Pre-concieved ideas before meeting Macbeth
Reliability of Captain's story? He is close to death, may not be thinking straight.
Military propaganda?
line 35; description of Macbeth. His character is made up of many different aspects
line 37; eager to fight

Scene 3

Macbeth can be seen from different angles after hearing the prophecy: hopeful, confused, intrigued, plotting.
Stage directions: use of "(aside)" shows how Macbeth is contemplating this new information
appears consumed in thought
pathetic fallacy used again as witches enter
witches portrayed as evil. inhumane.
line 31-36: use of rhyming, child-like. contrast with the witches
Macbeth wants to know more: "Speak, I charge you!"

Scene 4

Scene 5

Lady Macbeth: posses the ambition that Macbeth lacks, she wants the best; she appears to be a bad influence; is she always the driving force in the marriage?; use of violent imagery shows an insight into her thoughts; is this a full picture of her character?
use of letter to open scene shows how Macbeth and Lady Macbeth can be considered two sides to the same character
no ambiguity to Lady Macbeth's character
Lady Macbeth is the main focus; represents dominance in relationship
Lady Macbeth, catalyst to the plan of murder?
How in-tune are their thoughts? How do we know Macbeth isn't thinking what Lady Macbeth is saying?
Lady Macbeth perceived as masculine. Unexpected of the woman at the time
Lady Macbeth appears to be the representation of evil. Unconventional.

A2 English Lit