Some who feels tormented is experiencing severe physical or mental suffereing.

If something is deteriorating it is becoming progressively worse.

When a relationship is described as being estranged it is means there is no longer closeness between the couple.

A situation that is paradoxical is self contradictory or made up of two opposite elements.

'Macbeth': exploring the theme of internal conflict

English

In 'Macbeth: A Tragic Hero', pupils become more critical of Macbeth, analysing the role he plays in his own downfall. In 'Macbeth & Masculinity: The Struggle for Power', pupils explore how Macbeth's insecurity surrounding his masculinity is his hamartia.

In 'Macbeth: Lady Macbeth as a Machiavellian Villain', pupils focus on the role that Lady Macbeth plays in the downfall of her husband. In 'Macbeth: A Tragic Hero', pupils become more critical of Macbeth's own decisions, evaluating whether he could be considered a tragic hero.

In this unit, pupils analyse how Macbeth is presented as a tragic hero. They first deepen their understanding of Shakespearean tragedy and tragic heroes, and then use this knowledge to analyse key scenes from the play. Finally, they prepare an essay on how Macbeth is presented as a tragic hero.

Shakespeare: first deep dive

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Complete this quotation from 'Macbeth': "O' full of {{}} is my mind."

Complete the quotation from 'Macbeth': "We have scorched the {{}} not killed it.”

In 'Macbeth', which adjective can be used to describe the Macbeth's relationship in Act 3? This word means that the relationship lacks closeness.

Macbeth's mental state deteriorates due to his guilt.

Macbeth becomes more dominant in his relationship with his wife.

Macbeth starts to become more courageous again.

Lady Macbeth stops making decisions for Macbeth.

In 'Macbeth', why could Act 3 be described as a shift? Select all appropriate answers.

“Affliction of these terrible dreams”

"Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake thy gory locks at me!"

In 'Macbeth', which quotation implies the Macbeths are becoming more estranged?

"You lack the season of all natures, sleep"

“Ay, and a bold one, that dare look on that / Which might appal the devil”

In 'Macbeth', which quotation implies Macbeth is in conflict with himself?

Banquo has guessed Macbeth murdered Duncan.

The prophecies said Banquo's sons will become king.

Banquo has proven himself to be disloyal.

In 'Macbeth', why is it decided that Banquo must die?

In 'Macbeth', who decides to murder Banquo?

Macbeth orders murderers to kill Banquo and Fleance.

Banquo is killed in battle against Macbeth.

In 'Macbeth', who or what does Macbeth see sitting in his seat at the banquet?

Showing remarkable improvement and resilience.

Gradually becoming worse or declining in quality, condition or mental state.

Maintaining a stable and unchanging state over time.

What does **deteriorating** mean in this context: "Macbeth's mental state was deteriorating as his ambition consumed him."

Engaged in a continuous state of contemplation or meditation.

Repeatedly subjected to physical punishment or torture.

Experiencing severe mental or emotional anguish, distress or suffering.

What does **tormented** mean in this context: "Macbeth was tormented by guilt and visions of his misdeeds."

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of serious crime

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

'Macbeth': exploring the theme of internal conflict

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.