Exploring the opening of ‘Macbeth’
I can explore the opening scene of ‘Macbeth’, focusing on Shakespeare’s use of foreboding.
Exploring the opening of ‘Macbeth’
I can explore the opening scene of ‘Macbeth’, focusing on Shakespeare’s use of foreboding.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The opening scene is used to foreshadow events later in the play
- The supernatural is an important theme in the play
- The witches being in the opening scene illustrates their importance to the plot
Common misconception
The first scene is an exciting spectacle but not important to the rest of the play.
Despite its length, this scene grounds us in the atmosphere and main themes of the play.
Keywords
Familiar - When used as a noun, a familiar is a term which refers to a witch’s demon.
Foreboding - If something is foreboding, it gives the impression that something bad is going to happen.
Staging - Staging is how a play is presented on stage. Staging is influenced by stage directions and directorial decisions.
Pathetic fallacy - Pathetic fallacy is the use of weather to reflect the mood and tone of characters and their situation.
Ominous - If something is ominous, it give the impression that something bad is going to happen.
Equipment
You need access to a copy of William Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
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).
Video
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