Macbeth: Gender Flashcards
What is seen as the desired trait regarding gender in Macbeth?
Masculinity
What happens when a character’s manhood is questioned in the play?
They are often offended and feel compelled to prove their masculinity
How does Lady Macbeth describe Macbeth when he hesitates to murder Duncan?
As being “too full o’ th’ milk of human kindness”
How do characters in Macbeth feel about gender expectations?
They feel restrained by them (particularly the Macbeths)
In Jacobean times, how was gender viewed?
As a very strict and rigid construction that determined social roles
What was the basis of social hierarchy in Jacobean times?
Gender was an establishment upon which the hierarchy of society was built
What were women expected to be in Jacobean society?
Loyal and respectful daughters, wives, and mothers
What could happen to women who angered men in Jacobean times?
They could be kicked out or killed, and it was nearly impossible for them to support themselves financially
What was celebrated about men in Jacobean society?
Their aggression and sexuality
What was considered one of the most honourable things a man could be in Medieval times?
A warrior
What does Lady Macbeth do when she wants to manipulate Macbeth?
She taunts him about his masculinity
What does Macbeth’s reply “Prithee peace” suggest about his response to attacks on his masculinity?
That he cannot withstand these attacks and is sensitive and fragile
What does Macbeth mean when he says “I dare do all that may become a man; Who dares do more is none”?
That manhood is tied to honour rather than violence
What are the two types of masculinity Shakespeare presents through Macbeth?
One is violent, the other is chivalrous
What qualities were deemed incompatible with masculinity in Jacobean society?
Fear and paranoia
What happens to Macbeth when he gives in to his fear?
He becomes feminised (loses his masculine identity)
How does Macbeth describe himself after learning of Fleance’s escape?
As being flawed and imperfect: “I had else been perfect”
What similes does Macbeth use to describe masculinity after Fleance’s escape?
He compares ideal masculinity to “marble”, “rock”, and “air” - suggesting power, strength and dominance
How does Macbeth’s attitude to masculinity change in his final battle?
He chooses to fight to the death rather than surrender or commit suicide
What was considered more honourable for a soldier in Jacobean times?
To die in battle rather than surrender, which Macbeth eventually chooses
What alternative form of masculinity do Malcolm and Macduff represent?
A deeper, more emotional form of manhood
What is Macduff’s response when Malcolm tells him to “Dispute it like a man”?
He says he must also “feel it as a man” - suggesting grief is compatible with masculinity
How does Lady Macbeth’s character subvert gender expectations?
She is manipulative and domineering in her marriage rather than subservient
How would Lady Macbeth’s character have been viewed by a Jacobean audience?
As unnatural and disturbing because she defies accepted gender norms
