Approaching Shakespeare

Macbeth

4 snips
Nov 2, 2010
Discover the complex themes of agency in Macbeth, questioning the forces behind its tragic events. Delve into a mock trial that examines guilt and responsibility for the central murders. Explore the chilling role of witches as reflections of Macbeth’s ambitions. Uncover the striking use of color in Polanski's adaptation, especially the symbolism of red in portraying violence. Lastly, analyze the fascinating dynamic between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, highlighting the implications of female influence and narrative control.
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INSIGHT

Burton's Accretion Approach

  • Robert Burton's Anatomy of Melancholy lists various potential causes for a single phenomenon.
  • This reflects the early modern worldview where diverse and seemingly incompatible explanations coexisted.
INSIGHT

Three Potential Causes

  • Macbeth presents three potential causes for the play's events: individual agency, influence of others, and supernatural forces.
  • The play deliberately sets out all possibilities without favoring one, creating ambiguity.
ANECDOTE

Macbeth's Mock Trial and Thurber's Whodunit

  • A mock trial found Macbeth and Lady Macbeth not guilty, highlighting the play's ambiguity regarding responsibility.
  • James Thurber's comedic story presents a literal "whodunit" interpretation, further emphasizing this ambiguity.
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