The relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 1, Scene 7 of ‘Macbeth’
I can explore the presentation of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 1, Scene 7 of 'Macbeth'.
The relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 1, Scene 7 of ‘Macbeth’
I can explore the presentation of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in Act 1, Scene 7 of 'Macbeth'.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- At the start of Act 1, Scene 7, Macbeth is arguably conflicted
- Lady Macbeth goads Macbeth into killing Duncan - arguably by emasculating him
- Lady Macbeth emotionally blackmails her husband
- This scene could be interpreted as a turning point in the play. Macbeth's decision is made
Keywords
Hesitancy - Being in a state of hesitancy means being in a state of uncertainty.
Emasculate - If you emasculate someone, you undermine their masculine identity or role.
Manipulation - Manipulation is when you use tactics to control or influence another person, often for personal gain.
Emotional blackmail - Emotional blackmail is a way of getting what you want. It involves making threats or demands, and is damaging to the victim.
Goad - If you goad someone, you provoke them into doing something.
Common misconception
There is just one reason that Macbeth doesn't want to commit regicide - his loyalty to Duncan.
Macbeth's soliloquy explores crime but significantly earthly punishment. For Macbeth, the consequence on earth is what frightens him.
Equipment
You need access to a copy of William Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
- Depiction or discussion of sexual violence
- Depiction or discussion of sexual content
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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