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Year 10 - English

'Macbeth': an exploration of Act 3, Scenes 4 to 6

Macbeth: Lady Macbeth as a Machiavellian villain

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils read and analyse 'Macbeth' by focusing on the role of Lady Macbeth in the tragedy. They start by reading the full play, before moving on to a close analysis of key characters and themes. They then zoom in on Lady Macbeth and develop an essay on her as a Machiaevellian villain.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain what happens in Act 3, Scenes 4 to 6 of 'Macbeth' including comparing the character of Macbeth to the character of King Duncan.

Key Notes

  • Act 3 sees Shakespeare explore Macbeth's illegitimate reign over Scotland
  • At a public feast, Macbeth hallucinates Banquo's ghost
  • Macbeth reveals that he spies on his Thanes
  • Macbeth decides to go and see the three witches again
  • Macduff, a Scottish Thane, goes to England to try and raise an army against Macbeth

Vocabulary To Learn

  • reign: When a monarch (King or Queen) reigns over a country, it means they rule that country.
  • tyrant: A tyrant is someone who uses their power in an unjust way.
  • illegitimate: If your power or status is illegitimate, it is not legal or valid.
  • court: A monarch's court is made up of loyal and noble followers (subjects). It is the centre of power.
  • hallucination: A hallucination is when you see, smell, taste, touch or hear something that appears to be real, but is only in your mind.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Macbeth is a tyrannical ruler, and enjoys his tyranny.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Act 3 sees Shakespeare explore Macbeth's illegitimate reign over Scotland. At a public feast, Macbeth hallucinates Banquo's ghost.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'reign'

When a monarch (King or Queen) reigns over a country, it means they rule that country.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Macbeth is a tyrannical ruler, and enjoys his tyranny. Correction: Macbeth is a tyrant, but doesn't enjoy his reign. He is also self-aware: "I am in blood Stepp'd so far" or calling the witches "the worst".

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 10 English guide library.