Bonus Features: Discussion Points
Post Act 1
- Discuss important lines and moments from Act 1.
- How does Shakespeare establish the tone of the play in Act 1, scene 1?
- Is Duncan a good ruler?
- What are your first impressions of Lady Macbeth - is she merely ambitious or evil?
- Explore the ways in which Macbeth and Banquo are presented in Act 1.
- Whose ambition is the driving force in the play – Macbeth’s, Lady Macbeth’s, or both?
Post Act 2
- Discuss important lines and moments from Act 2.
- What is the significance of Macbeth’s vision of the dagger?
- What dramatic function does the Porter serve in the play?
- Why does Shakespeare introduce a discussion between Ross and an old man about supernatural events taking place upon Duncan’s death?
Post Act 3
- Discuss important lines and moments from Act 3.
- Compare and contrast the view of fate held by Macbeth, Lady Macbeth and Banquo.
- What is the significance of Macbeth’s vision of Banquo’s ghost in the play?
- Compare the Macbeth’s relationship at the start of the play and at this point in the story. Has it changed? If so, in what ways?
Post Act 4
- Discuss important lines and moments from Act 4.
- Discuss the role of the weird sisters; how much is this about fate versus free will?
- What role do Macbeth’s visions and hallucinations play in the development of his character?
- What is the significance of Malcolm’s testing of Macduff to determine his sincerity?
Post Act 5
- Discuss important themes in Macbeth.
- Discuss important lines and moments from Act 5.
- Compare and contrast Macbeth, Macduff and Banquo. How are they alike? How are they different?
- Discuss how Shakespeare explores the nature of gender and power in this play.
- Is Macbeth truly a tragic figure?
- Do you think Malcolm will be a good king?
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