Exploring the supernatural as a symbol of guilt in 'Macbeth'

English

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.

Shakespeare: the third 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

Depiction of war, threats of war, death or the aftermath of war.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

God could punish people through a wide range of instruments and tools.

God only invoked judgement by sending people to heaven or hell.

What was the Rennaisance belief about punishment?

Macbeth may be terrified of acknowledging his sin and guilt.

Macbeth believes Banquo could still usurp his place on the throne.

What could Macbeth's fear of Banquo's ghost reflect in 'Macbeth'?

In the quote: "a false creation proceeding from the heat-oppressed brain" from Act 2, Scene 1 of 'Macbeth', how does Shakespeare present guilt?

The conscience may be God's instrument to inflict divine retribution.

What did people in the Renaissance believe about the conscience as guided by biblical beliefs?

God has chosen to ignore their evil deeds.

They are being severely punished for unnatural deeds.

In 'Macbeth', the consequences Macbeth and Lady Macbeth face following their crimes could reflect what?

Which word beginning with 'v' means 'action against someone to punish that person'?

What is *not* an example of the supernatural in 'Macbeth'?

How does Macbeth suffer before killing Duncan in 'Macbeth'?

What does Lady Macbeth suffer from in Act 5, Scene 1 of 'Macbeth'?

It was acceptable if one was a relation of the king.

What did Jacobeans believe about regicide?

What was the general belief in the Jacobean/Renaissance period?

He tries to turn his guests against Banquo.

To Macbeth, there is nothing more terrifying than Banquo's ghost.

How does Macbeth react to Banquo's ghost in 'Macbeth'?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of serious crime

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision required

Introduction

What will you need for this lesson?

Are you ready to learn?

Equipment

Content guidance

Supervision

Worksheet