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Year 11 - English

'Macbeth': the play as a Shakespearean tragedy

Macbeth: A Tragic Hero

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 Macbeth meets the conventions of a Shakespearean tragedy.

Key Notes

  • Shakespeare's tragedies often focus on the fall of noblemen
  • Shakespearean tragic heroes such as Macbeth, often fall victim to external pressures
  • Some audiences may feel catharsis by Macbeth's downfall
  • Tragedies tend to stress the consequences of disobeying the accepted order of things
  • Freytag's pyramid is a useful tool in discussing the structure of Macbeth

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Hamartia: Hamartia is a fatal flaw a character holds.
  • Anagnorisis: Anagnorisis is when a character notices the true nature of their own circumstances.
  • Peripeteia: Peripeteia is part of a play when there are a sudden change in circumstances.
  • Hierarchy: A hierarchy is a system in which people or things are put at various levels or ranks according to their importance.
  • Catharsis: Catharsis is the process of releasing strong emotions in a way that helps you to understand those emotions.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • There is only one plot point that fits to each part of Freytag's structure.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Shakespeare's tragedies often focus on the fall of noblemen. Shakespearean tragic heroes such as Macbeth, often fall victim to external pressures.

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

Hamartia is a fatal flaw a character holds.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: There is only one plot point that fits to each part of Freytag's structure. Correction: When discussing climax, ask pupils if any other events in the play could be considered the climax.

More Lessons In This Unit

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