Macbeth

Lesson 1
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ELA

Unit 10

10th Grade

Lesson 1 of 23

Objective


Analyze the exposition of Macbeth, identifying the mood and the traits of major characters. 

Readings and Materials


  • Play: Macbeth by William Shakespeare  — Act 1, Scenes 1-2

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Target Task


Writing Prompt

How does Shakespeare develop the mood in the opening scene of the play? Explain using examples from the play.

Characterize Macbeth, Banquo, and Duncan based on Act 1.2. Use evidence to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • What does the term “exposition” mean?
  • What is the weather like as the witches convene? What does this signify or foreshadow?
  • What mood is being developed in this scene? How?
  • The witches say that a battle has been “lost and won.” What does that mean? What major motif does this illustrate?
  • How does Shakespeare want readers to feel after reading Act 1, Scene 1?
  • What is the name of the King?
  • Macbeth is a “Thane” what does this mean?
  • Who speaks first? Why would Shakespeare choose to have this person speak first?
  • Why is this first line a question? What central motif is reinforced?
  • Who is Macdonwald? 
  • What is fortune personified as? How is this connected to the motif of chaos and confusion?
  • Track the diction used to describe Macbeth AND the evidence used to describe his actions.
  • What happens at sunset? 
  • What did the Norweyan Lord do? (lines 35–36)
  • What is Macbeth's next action? How does this make Duncan feel? (60–67)
  • Check for understanding: What is Duncan giving Macbeth in return for this action? (73–75)

Notes


  • The exposition is a great time to show students that our analysis will be better than that of No Fear Shakespeare (a version they may have read in the past). Have students compare their analysis at the end of class to that of No Fear Shakespeare and see how much more they pick up on.
  • The mood/atmosphere is one of chaos and confusion. There are many contradictions, and the weather is stormy.
  • By the end of this lesson, students should be able to describe the following characters similarly to what is described below:
    • Macbeth: fierce, violent, loyal warrior
    • Banquo: fierce warrior
    • Duncan: A kind king who rewards Macbeth for his actions against the rebel—this is key to understanding the later betrayal.
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Lesson 2

Lesson Map

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