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Shakespeare's Scottish tragedy is known as his darkest work. It is about Macbeth's bloody rise to power, including the murder of the Scottish king, Duncan, and the guilt-ridden pathology of evil deeds generating still more evil deeds. It is assumed to have been composed in 1606 or 1607.
A few facts… Macbeth was likely written specifically to be performed for King James I who was fascinated by witches. King James also employed the theater companies at the time. Producing Macbeth is supposed to be UNLUCKY! Actors believe witches cast a spell on the play because of the divulgence of spells during the play. No actor will say “Macbeth.” Instead, they will say “That Scottish Play (Tragedy).”
Background Setting: Scotland , but also briefly in England When: In 1034, Duncan became king. The action in the play began six years later, in 1040, when Duncan was 36 years old Feudalism: Scotland was a feudal society in 1040 (11th century). This means the thanes, or lords were very powerful and all other people were ruled by them. The king was not really supreme.
Background Cont. The result: rebellion was common as one thane or another strove to become king. Kingship: When a king died, a king was selected by the thanes. Only thanes were eligible to rule. Violence: It was a dangerous time to be king. 17 kings ruled between 844 to 1057. Of these, 12 were assassinated. Daily life: Food and water were scarce. Scottish were fighting each other as well as the Vikings
The Real Macbeth • Macbeth came to power in 1040 by killing Duncan, though the phrasing in the source text implies this was in battle rather than by assassination. • It also leaves doubt as to whether • Duncan died by Macbeth's own hand or if he simply perished when Macbeth's forces met his own. • Prior to that time, Duncan ruled for six years and was a cruel leader. • Duncan also named his son, Malcolm, heir to the throne. This ignored the rules of succession. • King James I (VI) can trace his lineage back to Duncan.
Main Characters • Macbeth– Thane of Glamis, a general in the King’s army • Lady Macbeth– wife of Macbeth • Banquo– Thane of Lochaber, a general in the King’s army, and good friend of Macbeth • Fleance– Banquo’s son • Macduff– Thane of Fife, loyal nobleman • Duncan– King of Scotland • Malcolm– oldest son of the King • Donalbain– younger son of the King • Hecate– Queen of the witches • Three witches– Witches
