Act 1 Scene 6 Flashcards
What technique is prominently used in this scene to make it appealing to the audience?
Dramatic Irony
How is the dramatic irony exemplified?
King Duncan praises Macbeth’s castle and is very polite and kind to Lady Macbeth, his host; the fact that she wishes him to be killed by Macbeth creates tension through dramatic irony.
“This castle hath a pleasant seat; the air nimbly and sweetly recommends itself unto our gentle senses.”
This is an example of Duncan praising the environment of the castle.
Why is this scene important?
Duncan is clearly shown to love the Macbeths; the fact that they are plotting to kill him therefore builds the shock the audience will feel when the deed is done.
How is the theme of appearance vs reality shown?
Lady Macbeth is appearing to be an honourable hostess while in reality, she is planning to kill Duncan; she is “look[ing] like th’innocent flower, but be[ing] the serpent under’t.”
How does Duncan refer to Lady Macbeth?
“honour’d hostess”
“fair and noble hostess”
Why is this scene especially shocking (context)?
In Elizabethan times, guests were expected to be protected well by their hosts, who were supposed to look after the guests at all times; the fact that the Macbeths plan to kill him is therefore shocking, however, this is exemplified by Lady Macbeth’s false appearance as a “noble hostess”.
