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Year 10 - English

Exploring the presentation of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 3 of 'Macbeth'

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 explore Act 3, Scene 4 of 'Macbeth', with a focus on Macbeth's fears and Lady Macbeth's diminishing power.

Key Notes

  • Dramatically, Act 3, Scene 2 mirrors Act 1, Scene 5, with a murder being plotted.
  • However, roles have been reversed and Macbeth seems to be in control in this scene.
  • Both characters appear uneasy during this scene; power and status have not led to happiness.
  • Mirroring Lady Macbeth's "unsex me here", Macbeth seems to want to rid himself of "his bond" with humanity.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • parallels: If a scene or character parallels another, it means they are similar in some way. The slight differences will help us notice something new.
  • mirrors: If a scene or character mirrors another, it reflects what has come before. The slight differences will help us notice something new.
  • personify: When you personify something, you give something non-human human characteristics.
  • humanity: Humanity is the quality that people possess which makes them kind, compassionate and connected to their fellow humans.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The murder of Banquo and Fleance (attempted) is the same as the murders that have preceded it.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Dramatically, Act 3, Scene 2 mirrors Act 1, Scene 5, with a murder being plotted. However, roles have been reversed and Macbeth seems to be in control in this scene.

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

If a scene or character parallels another, it means they are similar in some way. The slight differences will help us notice something new.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: The murder of Banquo and Fleance (attempted) is the same as the murders that have preceded it. Correction: Macbeth doesn't tell Lady Macbeth his plan, he hires murderers rather than doing it himself, and Fleance is a child.

More Lessons In This Unit

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