Year 11 - English
'Macbeth': the witches' prophecies in Act 1, Scene 3
Macbeth: A Tragic Hero
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Study Guides
This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit, pupils analyse how Macbeth is presented as a tragic hero. They first deepen their understanding of Shakespearean tragedy and tragic heroes, and then use this knowledge to analyse key scenes from the play. Finally, they prepare an essay on how Macbeth is presented as a tragic hero.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain how A1, S3 illustrates Macbeth's early desire for power.
Key Notes
- In Act 1, Scene 3, Macbeth is presented as being more interested in the witches' prophecies than Banquo
- Act 1, Scene 3 can be used as evidence that Lady Macbeth cannot be solely blamed for manipulating her husband
- Whilst Macbeth is clearly conflicted early in the play, it is clear the witches' prophecies excite him
Vocabulary To Learn
- Perturbed: To be perturbed means to be disturbed by an idea, showing concern.
- Intrigued: Someone who shows great interest in an idea is intrigued.
- Receptive: If you are receptive to an idea, you are willing to listen to it and perhaps take it on board.
- Culpable: If you are culpable of a crime, you are guilty or responsible.
- Susceptible: If you are easily influenced by a particular idea or person, you could be described as being susceptible.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Pupils believe Lady Macbeth is solely responsible for the downfall of her husband.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.
In Act 1, Scene 3, Macbeth is presented as being more interested in the witches' prophecies than Banquo. Act 1, Scene 3 can be used as evidence that Lady Macbeth cannot be solely blamed for manipulating her husband.
2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'Perturbed'
To be perturbed means to be disturbed by an idea, showing concern.
3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.
Mistake: Pupils believe Lady Macbeth is solely responsible for the downfall of her husband. Correction: When discussing Macbeth's intrigue in the prophecies, challenge pupils to question whether Lady Macbeth is responsible at this point.
More Lessons In This Unit
- 'Macbeth' Act 2 Scene 1: the dagger hallucination Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': an analysis of Macbeth as a tragic hero Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': exploring Macbeth as the tragic hero Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': exploring Macbeth's death in Act 5 Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': exploring the theme of internal conflict Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': the play as a Shakespearean tragedy Study Guide
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