Act one of Macbeth introduces several characters and the gothic nature of the play. Macbeth is a well respected thane who is reported to have defeated allied forces against King Duncan. On his return he and Banquo are met by three witches who foresee Macbeth as king declaring ‘’all hail Macbeth...Thane of Cawdor, thane of Glamis....he shall be king there after’’. Macbeth is later declared thane of Cawdor thus proving one of the witches’ predictions. Enthralled by this Macbeth begins to have dark thoughts of how he could precede current king, Duncan. As the audience are introduced to Lady Macbeth it becomes clear she has a similar agenda. It is soon announced King Duncan has arrived at Macbeth’s quarters, both Lord and Lady Macbeth see opportunity. However she fears her husband is too compassionate to commit such an act ‘’the milk of human kindness’’. To ensure success of Duncan’s murder she manipulates her husband by insulting his masculinity, eventually ridding him of any second thoughts he had about murdering the king.
This is fine as a summary. Focus on some key bits that cause problems and ask questions about them. Use bullet points and line references. Also, pick out the gothic elements.
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