the chivalric code is an informal code of conduct that many men agreed to live by. It included honour, honesty and loyalty

an aside is a stage direction where dialogue is intentionally delivered to be heard by the audience, but not the other characters on stage

people show scepticism when they doubt the truth of something

fervour means intense or passionate feeling.

if something is described as apocalyptic it is catastrophic as it is being compared to the end of the world

'Macbeth': exploring Banquo and the chivalric code

English

In 'Macbeth: a tragic hero', pupils become more critical of Macbeth, analysing the role he plays in his own downfall. In 'Macbeth & masculinity: the struggle for power', pupils explore how Macbeth's insecurity surrounding his masculinity is his hamartia.

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.

Shakespeare: second deep dive

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

The four values of the chivalric code are, honour, honesty, valour and {{}}.

A powerful statement about the text as a whole.

Introduce a specific argument via your thesis statement.

Starting with the first, put the three steps of an excellent introduction in order.

Which of the quotations below are from Banquo's reaction to the witches' prophecies in 'Macbeth'?

The consequences of Banquo's murder act as a warning against disloyalty.

Select the ways in which Banquo is used as a construct in 'Macbeth'.

The prophecy about Banquo's son is a catalyst for Macbeth's paranoia.

Banquo is a honest and loyal servant of King Duncan.

Banquo's ghost drives Macbeth to isolate himself, furthering his downfall.

Select the best inferences about the importance of Banquo in 'Macbeth'.

Banquo's son will become Thane of Cawdor.

In 'Macbeth' what is the witches' prophecy for Banquo?

Macbeth is disgusted by their prophecies.

Macbeth is intrigued by their prophecies.

Macbeth is extremely excited by their prophecies.

Which of the statements below **best** describes Macbeth's initial reaction to the witches' prophecies in 'Macbeth'?

In 'Macbeth' when Banquo says the witches are 'instruments of darkness', what language device is Shakespeare using?

It tells the actor which side of the stage to stand on.

It is intentional and deliberate speech for the audience's ears only.

The actor should be off-stage, only their voice should be heard.

A monologue where a character explains their internal thoughts and feelings.

An 'aside' is a stage direction, but what does it mean?

is murdered by assassins, on the instruction of Macbeth

escapes from the murderers sent by Macbeth

is murdered in a violent battle by Macduff

Match the character from 'Macbeth' to the fate they suffer.

Banquo's ghost represents Macbeth's guilt.

Banquo's ghost shows Banquo will never forgive Macbeth.

Banquo's ghost further isolates Macbeth from his wife.

Banquo's ghost is a reminder that the supernatural is real.

Select the best inferences about the significance of Banquo's ghost in 'Macbeth'.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Adult supervision recommended

Introduction

What will you need for this lesson?

Are you ready to learn?

Equipment

Content guidance

Supervision

Worksheet