Year 11 - English
'Macbeth': masculinity as Macbeth's hamartia
Macbeth and masculinity: the struggle for power
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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 the importance of masculinity to Macbeth's downfall. They first explore the role of kingship, the importance of the chivalric code, Macbeth's lack of heir, and the feminine influences on him. Finally, they write nuanced responses about masculinity as Macbeth's hamartia.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to confidently describe how insecurities surrounding masculinity lead to Macbeth's downfall.
Key Notes
- Arguably, Macbeth's presentation as a brave warrior is a façade for his own insecurities.
- Macbeth's insecurities are a result of a patriarchal society.
- Arguably, both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are victims of the society that they live in.
- Macbeth's hamartia could be the insecurities he feels regarding his lack of patrilineal line
- Macbeth's hubris, his bloodlust and his susceptability to manipulation are all parts of his hamartia.
Vocabulary To Learn
- offspring: your children can be referred to as your offspring
- hamartia: a hamartia is a character's fatal flaw.
- hubris: hubris means excessive pride
- bloodlust: bloodlust is an uncontrollable desire to kill or harm others
- façade: a façade is a deceptive outer appearance
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Macduff acts as a foil to Macbeth solely because he is noble and courageous.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.
Arguably, Macbeth's presentation as a brave warrior is a façade for his own insecurities. Macbeth's insecurities are a result of a patriarchal society.
2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'offspring'
your children can be referred to as your offspring.
3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.
Mistake: Macduff acts as a foil to Macbeth solely because he is noble and courageous. Correction: Ask pupils if Macbeth had dealt with his grief/devastation like Macduff would there have been different outcomes?
More Lessons In This Unit
- 'Macbeth': exploring Banquo and the chivalric code Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': exploring King Duncan and leadership Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': exploring the external feminine influences in the play Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': the importance of kingship Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': understanding the significance of a lack of a male heir Study Guide
- 'Macbeth': writing nuanced responses about the role of masculinity in the play Study Guide
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