MACBETH CONTEXT Flashcards
What was the primary reason Shakespeare wrote Macbeth?
To reinforce James I’s authority and warn against treason
The play illustrates that those who attempt to usurp the throne will meet a horrific fate.
Who did James I claim to descend from in Macbeth?
Banquo
Banquo is portrayed as a noble character in the play, linking it to James’s legitimacy.
What historical event is reflected in Macbeth that caused anxiety during James I’s reign?
The Gunpowder Plot (1605)
This was an attempt by Catholic conspirators to assassinate the king.
What belief did James I hold regarding the Divine Right of Kings?
Monarchs were chosen by God and had absolute authority
This belief is linked to the Great Chain of Being.
What happens when the Great Chain of Being is disrupted?
It is seen as sinful and leads to dire consequences.
How do Macbeth and Lady Macbeth challenge the divine order?
By usurping the throne
This act was viewed as a grievous sin by the Jacobean audience.
What fascination did James I have that influenced Macbeth?
Witchcraft
He wrote a book, Daemonologie, condemning witches and supporting their persecution.
What role do the witches play in Macbeth?
They serve as entertainment and a moral warning
Engaging with dark forces leads to destruction.
What was the Jacobean view on ambition?
Excessive ambition was seen as dangerous and sinful
Particularly when it disrupted the natural order.
What does Shakespeare show about unchecked ambition in Macbeth?
It leads to guilt, paranoia, and eventual downfall.
How is Lady Macbeth portrayed in relation to ambition?
As unnaturally ambitious and manipulative
Her downfall reinforces traditional gender roles.
What central theme revolves around violence in Macbeth?
Violence is used as a tool for gaining and maintaining power.
How does Macbeth’s internal conflict manifest after killing King Duncan?
He experiences fear, guilt, hallucinations, and paranoia.
What does Macbeth’s psychological turmoil reveal about regicide?
It leads to divine punishment
This portrayal adds depth to Macbeth’s character.
What leadership qualities are contrasted in Macbeth?
Nobility and justice (Duncan) vs. tyranny (Macbeth).
How does ambition affect the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth?
Their relationship deteriorates due to guilt and paranoia.
What happens to Lady Macbeth’s character throughout the play?
She descends into madness.
How does Macbeth’s relationship with Banquo change?
It deteriorates as Macbeth fears Banquo’s heirs.
Why is ambition viewed as dangerous in Macbeth?
It disrupts the natural order and leads to condemnation.
How does the supernatural contribute to the themes in Macbeth?
It enhances the moral warnings and excitement for the audience.
How does Shakespeare use violence to explore power in Macbeth?
Violence serves as a warning against attaining power through bloodshed.
What qualities make a good leader in Macbeth?
Nobility, justice, and being chosen by divine order.
Fill in the blank: The _______ is a concept that suggests every person has a divinely ordained place in society.
Great Chain of Being
What is the main theme of Macbeth?
The main theme of Macbeth is the corrupting power of ambition.
