Notes

Act 1 scene 1
1. It immediately grabs our attention by its dramatic non-realism.
2. It raises our sense of curiosity and expectancy.
3. It establishes the importance of supernatural powers in the play.
4. It provides an initial clue about a key theme of good and evil.
act 1 scene 2
1. Shakespeare interests us further about who Macbeth is, as we learn about him by report.
2. We switch from the shadowy world of witches to the physical world of battle.
3. We discover that Macbeth and Banquo have displayed outstanding bravery in the fight.
4. We learn that Duncan, the king, is generous and kind.
5. We find out that Macbeth is to be made Thane of Cawdor.
Act 1 scene 3
1. We learn there is a limit to the witches’ power.
2. Shakespeare draws important contrasts between Banquo and Macbeth.
3. The theme of ambition is introduced.
Act 1 scene 4
1. The announcement of Malcom as the heir provides Macbeth with motivation to prevent this happening, by committing murder and treason.
2. Shakespeare shows how Macbeth’s attitude has changed and hardened.
3. Shakespeare contrasts even further the difference between the reality of the situation and the appearance.
4. Macbeth’s character is contrasted with Duncan, Banquo and even the executed Thane of Cawdor.
Act 1 scene 5
1. Shakespeare establishes the close relationship between Macbeth and his wife.
2. Supernatural forces are re-introduced by lady Macbeth calling on them.
3. The scale and scope of the evil contemplated is heightened further by her language.
4. We learn that Macbeth has ‘the milk of human kindness’ in him that may resist the temptation of regicide.
5. Shakespeare arouses our curiosity about what happens next.
Act 1 scene 6
1. Shakespeare continues developing the theme of appearance (we are loyal to the king) versus reality (we are really going to commit regicide).
2. Shakespeare shows Lady Macbeth fully involved in the deception and the treachery.
3. Again, we contrast Duncan’s open and free nature with that of the nature of Macbeth.