'Macbeth': exploring Macbeth as the tragic hero
I can identify the ways in which Macbeth is a tragic hero.
'Macbeth': exploring Macbeth as the tragic hero
I can identify the ways in which Macbeth is a tragic hero.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Hubris, hamartia, stubornnesss and self-discovery are all characteristics of a tragic hero
- Macbeth displays hubris by disregarding the natural order
- Some people argue that Macbeth’s hamartia is his overly ambitious nature
- Macbeth feels guilt throughout the play, although it is arguable whether he learns a moral lesson
Keywords
Hubris - Hubris is an extreme and unreasonable sense of pride in yourself.
Stubborn - Someone who is determined to do what they want and refuses to change their mind can be described as being stubborn.
Disregard - If you disregard something you ignore it, and refuse to let it influence you.
Palpable - If a feeling is very obvious or very strong it can be described as being palpable.
Common misconception
Pupils think Macbeth has all of the characteristics of a tragic hero.
Use learning cycle 2 to draw out a debate about whether Macbeth actually learnt a lesson, highlighting where pupils may not agree.
Equipment
You may find it helpful to have a copy of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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