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Year 11 - English

Exploring blood as symbol of guilt in 'Macbeth'

Macbeth: the role of guilt

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about the importance of guilt in 'Macbeth'. They first conceptualise guilt within 'Macbeth', before exploring light, the supernatural, sleep and blood as symbols of guilt in the play. They finally write a nuanced and tentative argument about the role of guilt in the play.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explore and analyse the motif of blood in 'Macbeth'.

Key Notes

  • Blood is a motif that is associated with guilt in 'Macbeth'.
  • Initially, both Lady Macbeth and Macbeth's reference to blood reflects their guilt and intact conscience.
  • As the play progresses, Macbeth is haunted by blood and guilt.
  • Lady Macbeth doesn't see blood as staining and thus rejects her guilt early on in the play.
  • At the end of the play, both Macbeth and his wife are consumed by blood and guilt, both appearing helpless.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Motif: a recurring idea, image or symbol in a text or piece of art
  • Impervious: unable to be affected
  • Consumed: if you are consumed with something, it affects you very strongly

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Blood only symbolises violence and bloodshed.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Blood is a motif that is associated with guilt in 'Macbeth'. Initially, both Lady Macbeth and Macbeth's reference to blood reflects their guilt and intact conscience.

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

a recurring idea, image or symbol in a text or piece of art.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Blood only symbolises violence and bloodshed. Correction: Blood comes to symbolise psychological turmoil and guilt as the play progresses.

More Lessons In This Unit

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