Notes on Macbeth and its Context

Introduction

• Macbeth written in 1606 during the Jacobean period.
• Elizabeth I died in 1603 with no heirs, leading to James I becoming king.
• Distress over James's ascension led to the Gunpowder Plot against him.

Themes of Usurpation

• Macbeth explores the theme of usurpation (stealing the throne from rightful ruler).
• Shakespeare avoids portraying James I as an imposter.
• The play serves as a warning against unchecked ambition, connecting to the Gunpowder Plot.
• Divine justice is highlighted, punishing arrogance.

Characterization of Banquo

• Banquo depicted as honorable and noble, linking him to King James.
• Witches prophesy Banquo’s descendants will be kings, referencing James's dual rule over England and Scotland.
• Shakespeare positions James as part of the force of good against Macbeth’s tyranny.

The Great Chain of Being

• The Great Chain of Being reflects a hierarchical structure:
  • God at the top
  • King as God's lieutenant
  • People serve the king
• Disruption of this order through Duncan's murder leads to chaos.
• The theme of order vs. chaos reflects Renaissance beliefs.

Tension Between Fate and Free Will

• Shakespeare navigates between traditional religious views and Renaissance humanism.
• Religious thought marked by superstition is contrasted with humanist ideas of individual agency.
• Macbeth's fate is influenced by witches but also shaped by his choices.

Portrayal of Women

• Shakespeare's female characters reflect misogynistic stereotypes of the Jacobean period.
• Lady Macbeth exhibits traditionally masculine traits; Macbeth shows cowardice.
• Possible interpretations of this inversion:
  • Warning against disrupted gender roles.
  • Challenge to rigid gender stereotypes.
  • Illustration of the dangers of violent masculinity.

Form and Structure of Macbeth

• Macbeth is a dramatic tragedy with moral lessons.
• Influenced by the Renaissance rediscovery of classical works, especially Greek theatre.
• Follows Aristotelian conventions:
  • Peripatia (turning point)
  • Hamartia (fatal flaw: ambition)
  • Pathos (evoking pity)
  • Anagnorisis (realization of doom)
  • Catharsis (emotional release through death).

Conclusion

• Shakespeare's context shapes themes and forms in Macbeth.
• The interplay of political events and Renaissance philosophies enriches the play's narrative.