'Macbeth': an exploration of Act 3, Scenes 4 to 6
I can explain what happens in Act 3, Scenes 4 to 6 of ‘Macbeth’ including comparing the character of Macbeth to the character of King Duncan.
'Macbeth': an exploration of Act 3, Scenes 4 to 6
I can explain what happens in Act 3, Scenes 4 to 6 of ‘Macbeth’ including comparing the character of Macbeth to the character of King Duncan.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Act 3 sees Shakespeare explore Macbeth’s illegitimate reign over Scotland
- At a public feast, Macbeth hallucinates Banquo’s ghost
- Macbeth reveals that he spies on his Thanes
- Macbeth decides to go and see the three witches again
- Macduff, a Scottish Thane, goes to England to try and raise an army against Macbeth
Keywords
Reign - When a monarch (King or Queen) reigns over a country, it means they rule that country.
Tyrant - A tyrant is someone who uses their power in an unjust way.
Illegitimate - If your power or status is illegitimate, it is not legal or valid.
Court - A monarch’s court is made up of loyal and noble followers (subjects). It is the centre of power.
Hallucination - A hallucination is when you see, smell, taste, touch or hear something that appears to be real, but is only in your mind.
Common misconception
Macbeth is a tyrannical ruler, and enjoys his tyranny.
Macbeth is a tyrant, but doesn't enjoy his reign. He is also self-aware: "I am in blood Stepp'd so far" or calling the witches "the worst".
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of William Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Macbeth plots Banquo and Fleance's murders.
Lady Macbeth is unhappy and isolated from Macbeth.
Banquo is murdered; Fleance escapes.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
Macbeth plots Banquo and Fleance's murder.
Lady Macbeth is unhappy and isolated.
Banquo is murdered; Fleance escapes.
Macbeth hallucinates Banquo's ghost.
Hecate meets the three witches.
Two Thanes discuss Macbeth's reign.