Final Writing Assignment
During this lesson, you analyzed Act I, Scene iii of Macbeth by identifying techniques Shakespeare used to distinguish between the natural and the supernatural and explaining the effect supernatural forces had on the main character. In your final writing assignment, you will demonstrate your understanding of Shakespeare’s use of supernatural elements by analyzing another scene in the play.
To complete the assignment, choose one of the following supernatural elements:
- The air-drawn dagger
- Banquo’s ghost
- The conversation between Macbeth and Lennox about strange phenomena experienced on the night of Duncan’s murder
Write a 1–2 page paper that explores whether this element predicts, influences, or reflects Macbeth’s behavior and character. In your essay, be sure to address the following questions:
- Where does the event happen within the play? What precedes it, and what later events does it affect? Do you think the supernatural event really happened or is it a figment of Macbeth’s imagination? How does this affect how we interpret this event and its impact on the play?
- What does this element add to the play? Think about how it affects the mood, relates to themes, or reveals character.
- Does this event suggest that Macbeth is totally under the control of supernatural forces, or is Macbeth still responsible for his own actions?
- What particular lines from the play support your interpretation?
To start, click on the Write It button below.
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