'Macbeth': masculinity as Macbeth's hamartia
I can confidently describe how insecurities surrounding masculinity lead to Macbeth's downfall.
'Macbeth': masculinity as Macbeth's hamartia
I can confidently describe how insecurities surrounding masculinity lead to Macbeth's downfall.
Lesson details
Key learning 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
- 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
Keywords
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 misconception
Macduff acts as a foil to Macbeth solely because he is noble and courageous.
Ask pupils if Macbeth had dealt with his grief/devastation like Macduff would there have been different outcomes?
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
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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