Macbeth Journal #2
Directions: Respond to one of the prompts below; title your work using the bold-faced title that matches the prompt that you choose.
- Tragic Hero- Explain the extent to which the first act succeeds (or fails) to establish Macbeth as a tragic hero. Be certain to support all of your assertions with direct references to the play as well as citations to other reliable literary critics.
- Casting Spells-The witches’ spells are full of rich imagery of the natural world. What effect does this focus on nature have on the mood of the play?
- Power of Persuasion-How does lady Macbeth convince Macbeth to kill Duncan? How do you ask for what you want? Does your tactic differ from Lady Macbeth’s?
- Blank Verse-Some lines in Macbeth are irregular, with fewer feet or with feet that are not iambs. The play even contains some prose passages, indicated by lines that are set in full measure. Scan one major speech by Macbeth and one by Lady Macbeth in Act 1. What variations in iambic pentameter do you find? Why do you think these variations exist? Do the witches speak in blank verse?Why do you suppose Shakespeare wrote their speeches this way? Locate a prose passage in this Act. Why did Shakespeare chose to use it?
Be sure to follow the discussion board rubric guidelines linked below.
Riley Edwards 1st Period Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteMacbeth is established early as a clear hero. He is described as valiant, courageous, and strong enough to do battle, clearly capable of heroism. It is apparent that he suffers from excess hubris, but even a classical hero is allowed some degree of pride in himself. In a classical hero story, Macbeth would go on a quest to slay these witches who tell evil curses with their evil magic, and him and his wife would live happily as heroes.
However, Macbeth is a tragedy, and when the title character is informed of his destiny, that he will be king, he immediately wants nothing more than to rule the land. Even though he likes Duncan and has some degree of reticence at the idea of slewing Duncan, Lady Macbeth manages to sway Macbeth with the promises of power if he does the deed. Macbeth’s pride and Lady Macbeth’s greed immediately corrupt the remainder of their personas, dooming them to their inevitable fate as anti-heroes.
I agree that Shakespeare does a good job as establishing Macbeth as a tragic hero. He sets him up with everything- a stable house, money, power, war heroism- and then gives us a glimpse at how far he's going to fall because of his hubris.
DeleteI think it's interesting you pointed out that if this were a traditionally story, Macbeth would be killing the witches, not whatever political enemy was in his way. I also agree that when the witches told Macbeth he could be king, it was like all of his current dreams were erased and replaced by this new one. Tunnel vision is fatal, especially to tragic heroes.
DeleteI agree with Leslie, it seems as though his hubris and ambition have culminated in a violent act that has successfully abolished his integrity.
DeleteHannah Medford, pd 6, Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe Weird Sisters give the play "Macbeth" an eerie tone that it wouldn't have if it were based solely in the material world. Without them it would just be about a power crazy man who takes his ambition too far, but they give it depth and allow the reader to sympathize with Macbeth. Their connection with nature could be seen as a reference to Paganism, or Wicca, as a religion but Shakespeare doesn't show it enough respect or diversity for that. Instead of showing them being connected to the Earth in all manners, he writes them as only being strongly connected with the "darker" side of nature (lightning, rain, wind, etc.). At the very beginning of Act 1, they are saying they will meet again "in thunder, lightning, or in rain" before "the set of sun" and "upon the heath." These harsh elements foreshadow a darkness coming in the play and make sure that the Weird Sisters are viewed as twisted, dark, manipulators. Their other scene in Act 1, at the beginning of scene 3, shows them calling up a storm to punish a sailors wife. As well as reinforcing the idea that they are disturbed individuals, this scene reveals their power and pettiness.
The power that the Weird Sisters have over nature is used to give the play a more ominous tone and push a theme that whatever happens is fate.
I agree that the Witches give Macbeth its classic eerie tone. If you took away the witches and let Macbeth discover he could be king on his own, this would be a very different play.
DeleteI completely agree with the fact of an "eerie" tone. I also agree that it is important for women to have significant roles, which is nicely introduced in this play, unlike many that were written during that time period.
DeleteI agree with your point about the fogginess that the Weird Sisters add to the play. The elements they invoke definitely lean towards an inevitably dark and mysterious future.
ReplyDeleteCamry Dixon (6th period Honors)
ReplyDeleteMacbeth plays like a tragic character in my opinion because of the prophecy that the three Weird Sisters describe in the beginning and while talking to Macbeth Banquo. They described the two of them but only Macbeth would be the one to claim kingship, that being said he has a great burden placed on him at the very beginning of this story. One of a Tragic heroes characteristics is to have a tragic past that would drive them to be a hero, this is possibly that mantra, not his past that will drive him to be that hero. Assuming that the story has some plot twist where the current king is corrupt in some way and Macbeth will free his country from the tyranny of the king. One of the other aspects of a tragic hero is that they have the potential to become great but they to steely end up in failure, Macbeth obviously demonstrates his ability relying on the description of the wounded solider, his ability to take over and overcome obstacles and defeat his opponent with no mercy nor with a lack of ability.
Macbeth has the power to become a great leader but its the three weird sisters who i think well do what every they can in their evil power to stop him from being a great leader.
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DeleteTo Monica, I don't think the witches are out to get Macbeth. I think their purpose is to make things more chaotic with their surreal powers rather than to go after Macbeth. As Hannah Medford mentioned, the sisters are linked closely to nature, as they talk about the lightning and rain and wind. I think nature is more of a neutral force than anything, and even if it is a more chaotic facet of nature, I don't think it's specifically out to get Macbeth.
DeleteI agree with rat, The Weird sisters aren't out to get Macbeth, they just tell him of his good fortune. Macbeth just tries to read in between the lines or rather he tried to jump at the quickest solution he could think of to get to his kingship. The fortune was the thing that will drive Macbeth to kill the king, but the fortune itself isn't evil.
DeleteThink about along the lines of this: If you got a fortune cookie and the fortune read (trying to put this into context) "One day you will become the CEO of your company" and you went to kill your current CEO would that make the fortune evil?
Leslie Castro 2nd Period Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteWhen Macbeth returns, the first thing his wife does is address him as the newly-anointed Thane of Cawdor. Lady Macbeth has had her ambitions set ever since she read the letter earlier in the scene. What she wants is through her husband, so she makes sure to stroke his ego and butter him up before telling him of her plan. But Lady Macbeth is like a serpent; she strikes quick, wasting no time in telling him that their (her) plan is to kill Duncan. The fact that Lady Macbeth practically pushed this onto her husband is its own topic.
In I.vii, the second Lady Macbeth senses Macbeth's doubt, she launches into a speech about how she would have killed her own child without hesitation, if she had sworn it to him (lines 54-59). This evokes his guilt. She even insults his manhood, striking a sensitive nerve. Manhood and its relation to ethics are a common theme in Shakespeare's plays. She then ends the scene by assuring him it is alright and they will play the part once the news of Duncan's death comes out. She takes Macbeth through a rollercoaster of emotions in a short scene. She brought him up, pushed him down, and then soothed him. It's hard for him to resist when he is clearly submitting to his wife and she is the stronger character in this point in time.
My tactics definitely differ from Lady Macbeth's. Unless it's an annoying problem that needs to be confronted, I approach what I want with caution. I try to get the other party used to my idea and lay out a full case before I outright ask them. Lady Macbeth just steamrolls ahead.
I feel as though Lady Macbeth is the catalyst that makes Macbeth the tragic hero that he is. Without her, I do not think he would go to such drastic lengths.
DeleteI agree that Shakespeare very pointedly had the first thing the reader hears out of Lady Macbeth's mouth (that is her own character talking and not reciting a letter) is how she addresses Macbeth as Thane of Glamis and Cawdor and (indirectly) a future King. From the start the reader understands that Lady Macbeth wants the title of Queen, and soon after the reader learns that she will do anything to gain that title.
DeleteI agree Leslie's approach over Lady Macbeth's. I think that taking things slowly and with forethought is much more effective and less risky than jumping right in with emotions blazing.
DeleteKatie, I think you're absolutely right in calling Lady Macbeth a catalyst. She even says at one point that his nature is "too full o' the milk of human kindness." And as Leslie pointed out, she harshly challenges him with her own heartlessness (sacrificing a child, that's crazy,) and serving as a model for his own moral downfall.
DeleteI also agree that Lady Macbeth is the more unbalanced of the pair. However, I definitely think that many people use her tactics today (in a less violent form) to get what they want from other people. I notice other students using personal insults and sly digs at each others' ability to goad friends into doing things that they wouldn't otherwise.
DeleteI like how you compared the actions of Lady Macbeth to the likes of a serpent. It was an interesting yet insightful metaphor.
DeleteMonica Ramirez period 6 Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe play started of with the three weird sisters who I didn't know who they were or any more where they came from. It opens up a curiosity that maybe they have something to do with the theme or with whoever Macbeth might be. They rhyme a lot when they speak and are very spooky and evil. According to my research the word wryd means fate. So the three witches could represent the fates of Macbeth. They witches use nature to help them with their powers and witchcraft.They are seen as dark creature because in the beginning they said that "they will meet again in the thunder, lightening, or rain". Usually when one thinks of thunder and rain they picture something scary and spooky ghost,witches, or death. Which sets the mood very well. The witches give the story a very dark, evil feeling. It's like they want Macbeth to be tragic hero, they want to control him in doing horrible things they want his fate to be what they choose it to be.
That's very interesting about wyrd/weird meaning fate. It makes sense that the witches are the ones who tell Macbeth what his future will be, and reinforces the overall theme of taking fate into your own hands. I looked into it a little more and it looks like wyrd had several definitions related to fate. One was that every man would have a wyrd, or a destiny, but the other was that there was a goddess called Wyrd who dictated fate. That especially contributes to the spooky atmosphere of the play.
DeleteBrianna Bulgarino (2) Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth convinces Macbeth to kill Duncan by questioning his manhood and masculinity. She knows that she has more strength and determination to get what she wants and manipulates Macbeth. She plays on his pride because she knows he will give in. Although I do not attempt to manipulate people to get what I want, it is easy to appeal to a person’s weak spot. By knowing what a person wants, you can get what you want in return. For example, Lady Macbeth is aware of the witches’ prophecy that Macbeth will become king and knows that he desires the power. She uses this to her advantage by taunting and pressuring Macbeth to kill Duncan in order to get the crown. Lady Macbeth is driven by greed which proves there is no limit to what she is willing to do to get what she wants.
Lady Macbeth wants to be queen but it's like she wants to rule alone. Like you said it's her greed that has no limits and that's what i feel makes her like the fourth witch.
DeleteI agree that Macbeth is prone to insults and has difficulty to think on his own as a result he can be considered a tragic hero from the start.But i am not sure that Lady Macbeth was driven by greed but more of ambitious to experience a better life, she probably wants herself and Macbeth to live a better life even though she has to break some social norms(commit murder). I also believe she is seizing the opportunity that does not come to every man.
DeleteKaitlin Coleman, pd. 6
ReplyDeleteResponse #2 (Monday)
CLASSWORK:
Tragedy - In Shakespeare, a tragedy is a drama with a noble protagonist who is flawed in some way, placed in a stressful situation and ends with a fatal conclusion.
Catharsis - The process of releasing strong or repressed emotions.
Hamartia - The previously described "fatal flaw" of a protagonist.
Hubris - Pride (often a fatal flaw.)
Characteristics of a tragic hero - A preeminently "great" or noble person with a fatal flaw as described in most tragedies.
Euphemism - A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant.
Euphemisms used in regards to the murder of Duncan - "If the assassination
could trammel up the consequence, and catch with his surcease success; that but this blow might be the be-all and the end-all here..." "Will it not be received,
When we have marked with blood those sleepy two of his own chamber and used their very daggers..." I am settled, and bend up each corporal agent to this terrible feat." Macbeth uses these euphemisms in his speech with Lady Macbeth because he is obviously hesitant about the crime he is about to commit. He does not seem as hardened as Lady Macbeth, and it is evident that he is attempting to assuage his guilt by making the words as easy to swallow as possible.
HOMEWORK:
Macbeth is established early on as a tragic hero. In typical Shakespearean tragedy fashion, he is described as valiant, ambitious and brave. I believe that his hubris is unquestionably a fatal flaw that will end in the eventual downfall of Macbeth, but my take on his "heroism" is different for one important reason. While I was reading Act I it became increasingly clear that Lady Macbeth acts as a poisonous catalyst for Macbeth's violent acts. He is an ambitious man, but it is difficult for me to say whether or not he would be as ambitious without his power-hungry counterpart. At the time it would have been unusual to have an extremely ambitious female "hero" in a Shakespearean play, but I think Shakespeare aptly described her in their conversation as a lustful, driven woman who is capable of almost any heinous act. While Macbeth is a tragic hero, it seems unlikely that he would be one without the stimulus of Lady Macbeth.
I agree that Lady Macbeth appears to be a catalyst for Macbeth's tragic hero downfall. Everyone has little nagging thoughts on less-than-savory actions, but very rarely does the majority of the population act on those thoughts. However, if there is another voice outside your own whispering in your ear to do this or do that such as Lady Macbeth does to Macbeth, you are much more likely to act.
DeleteI disagree with your portrayal of Lady Macbeth. Rather than being power-hungry and overly ambitious, I think she just wants what's best for her and her husband. When an opportunity arises, she takes it, but Macbeth hesitates regarding whether it's the right thing to do. It's represented well in my favorite quote: "The doubtless man's path is straight, but not always true. A juggernaut does not pause to correct trajectory. It merely presses on. But by stopping, doubting, and occasionally doubling back, you keep a truer course." Lady Macbeth is the juggernaut, firmly of the opinion that what she's doing is right, and trusting that instinct, whereas Macbeth's conscience clearly nags at him every step of the way. Were it not for Lady Macbeth, it's likely he wouldn't have gone through with the act at all, but together they support each other in it.
DeleteI agree with Louis, although Lady Macbeths actions could be viewed as manipulative and selfish, I think she did have both her and Macbeths best intentions at heart. She's an ambitious women who simply does what needs to be done in order to reach her goals which all ties back into the discussion during class about how much ambition is too much.
DeleteBrian Fischer (period 6): Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteIt is apparent that Macbeth is a tragic hero from the beginning of the play. Macbeth is first shown as a hero when the soldiers speak Macbeth’s praises to King Duncan for his strength and courage in battle for the king’s land. Like any tragic hero, Macbeth doesn’t quite have the complete Prince Charming package. Macbeth is loaded with tragic flaws. When the witches call Macbeth the “Thane of Cawdor”, Macbeth is all over this title. It’s clear that he thinks highly of himself by his pleasure with this title. The witches also prophesize that Macbeth will become king. It only takes Macbeth a split second to break off into daydreaming about the demise of the king. This brings to light Macbeth’s murky morals. When Banquo snaps Macbeth out of his reverie, Macbeth lies about his thoughts. Macbeth does like King Duncan and isn’t entirely thrilled with the thought of putting him to rest, but Macbeth’s faults come out on top. Macbeth’s blend of heroic qualities and tragic flaws presented in the first act build Macbeth into a tragic hero.
I agree Macbeth is a tragic hero from the start and will destroy the kingdom if given power.Lady Macbeth has control over Macbeth by insulting his manhood “[Lady Macbeth] Live a coward in thine own esteem… [Macbeth] I dare do all that may become a man”. Macbeth is prone to the corruption of the people not just from his wife. He cannot make decisions on his own if other put him down (insult him and praise him to make other choices). From his characteristics, he becomes a easy target for manipulation as such unworthy to take the throne and lead the people. Macbeth's Hubris will ultimately be his downfall like many tragic heroes.
DeleteIt is definitely exemplified and almost clearly shown how much of a tragic hero Macbeth really is. The amount of praise received for the first time you meet him in the play is astounding. I agree with your point of his heroic qualities and tragic flaws being presented early on, to allow the reader to understand his character in being a "tragic hero"
DeleteAmanda Nemecek (6) - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteI believe the witches rely so heavily on natural imagery because it evokes a wild, chaotic force unable to be controlled. Macbeth is set in old Scotland, and although there are Thanes and a King to control the people, there is no way for man to control the land. Nature is untamable, and that plays a big part into themes we discussed earlier, specifically the “predetermined fate” theme and the “supernatural force” theme.
I still firmly believe the three witches are meant to represent the ancient Greek Fates. As such, they would be unable to be influenced or commanded by man. In the text, although Macbeth orders the witches to stay, they leave regardless. Like nature and the natural spells they cast, they are unable to be controlled by man. I think in including this connection between the witches and nature, Shakespeare is trying to say that, like how man is ultimately unable to control all the wild growth of the outdoors, man is also ultimately unable to control every aspect of his fate.
I agree that the witches and their nature references correlate to the idea of predestined fate in the play. These witches definetly are not good news and that becomes more and more evident as the play progresses.
DeleteI agree with the idea that the witches are a force that cannot be controlled, which goes along with man not being able to control the land. The relationship between nature and fate both being out of mans control is something I never thought of before and is very interesting. I agree with you and believe that the witches represent the Fates, again tying in the themes of supernatural forces and predetermined fate.
DeleteNature in its "original form," I suppose you could call it- the words 'wild' and 'chaotic' do come to mind. The inability of someone (in this case, Macbeth) to control their fate (again, referencing the three fates) can cause them to go to drastic measures to make sure things go their way.
DeleteI like how you pointed out the unpredictability of nature and how it symbolizes the protagonist inability to control his own date regardless of his strong sense of ambition.
DeleteErin Eichenberger p6- Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth's main tactic in convincing her husband is making all possible impediments seem minor. She herself says this, stating “I may pour my spirits in thine ear, and chastise with the valour of my tongue all that impedes thee from the golden round.” She builds up Macbeth's confidence, dissuading him from feeling any doubt. When Macbeth asks what will happen if they fail, she says simply, “We fail! But screw your courage to the sticking-place, and we'll not fail.” Later she challenges his courage when he seems reticent to continue, asking if he would let “'I dare not' wait upon 'I would.'” She leads him into believing that he is invincible and clearly meant to take the throne, not just by fate but strength of character too.
When I'm trying to get what I want I frame my request as the logical option. I ease into it, leading the person I'm convincing toward the idea, almost as if it's their own. I think I'm a lot more subtle than Lady Macbeth would ever be, especially because I'm prepared to back down and compromise. She sees a goal and wants to “catch the nearest way,” as she described killing Duncan (an obstacle in her path to power.) I try to consider multiple options, but I think she latches on to the most obvious solution, never mind the consequences. I'm much too tenderhearted to disregard human life as she does. Lady Macbeth doesn't mince words; she is direct in her actions and her intentions. Her power of persuasion stems from her ability to speak clearly, purposefully and without hesitancy.
Ultimately, the goal of persuasion is to convince another person to do something in a manner that you approve of. Lady Macbeth's ambition in that she is determined in her act of persuasion makes the reader see Lady Macbeth in a new light, and makes Lady Macbeth stand out as a defined character.
DeleteMorgan Coyle (2nd)- Persuasion
ReplyDeleteThrough a cunning manipulation of her husband’s logic, along with an appeal to his desire to be masculine, Lady Macbeth convinces Macbeth that the best course of action is to murder the king that night. Judging by how easily Macbeth forgot his earlier wisdom, “Bloody instructions, which, being taught, return/To plague th' inventor,” and agreed to kill the king, he is easily swayed, especially by his wife, who knows his weaknesses.
In reference to the second and third questions, I’d like to think that my methods of persuasion differ from those of Lady Macbeth. Although she is extremely convincing, appealing to both the logical and the emotional sides of the argument, she does it in a sinister way that seems a bit like brainwashing. Despite my use of both pathos and logos when I am trying to convince someone of something, I (hopefully) would never force someone to do something that I knew they didn’t feel comfortable doing. My tactics differ from Lady Macbeth’s out of a simple respect for the person who I am persuading.
Macbeth does seem to want to be in control, but he hands it over so easily to Lady Macbeth. That definately shows how well tuned her power of persuasion is. It is interesting how quickly his mind changes.
DeleteWhile I agree that Lady Macbeth has a sterner will, I would argue that Macbeth is too conflicted to carry out the act himself. Once he brings up the idea to her, she's all for it, and keeps gunning even as Macbeth has second thoughts about the legitimacy of the fate he's been told and his vow of loyalty. It's less that he wants to be in control than that he wants to be king - in fact, he'd rather not be in control, seeing as how he tries to hand the dirty work to his wife.
DeleteElizabeth Vicario- pd. 2
DeleteYour last argument seemed to support the idea that Lady Macbeth forced the decision onto Macbeth, but I understood the text a little differently. Though Lady Macbeth is clearly the mastermind, I don't think she forced him into doing anything; he always had the choice and should have clearly seen that killing the king was a terrible idea. On the other hand, her getting the guards drunk before telling her husband about the plan did seem like she was thrusting the decision into his hands. (Unless I misunderstood the text in that section and they discussed it beforehand)
Macbeth was most definitely not a victim here. Lady Macbeth gets what she wants and makes the decision easier on him, but no where in the text did I get the idea that Macbeth made any decision lightly and purely from his wife's persuasion.
DeleteCatherine Lumsden (2nd) - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteIn the very first scene in Macbeth, the witches create a somber and dangerous mood. The first witch asks "when shall we three meet again in thunder, lightning, or in rain?" This scene also takes place in a "desert place" near the battlefield. This creates a rich painting of gloom and suspense for the scenes to come. The line "hover through the fog and filthy air," also creates an image of Macbeth pushing his way through the fog and difficult decisions.
When the first witch is describing what she will do the the husband of the woman who scorned her, she tells the audience of her power over nature. She says she has power over the winds and the seas. This enforces the imagery of the witches being the fates, giving them a sense of power.
The witches also talk about the setting sun, which foreshadows the fall of Macbeth as a tragic hero.
In class today, Vickie brought up the point that the three witches were like the three fates of classic mythology. I researched into it a bit and found that the witches are usually referred to as "weird," coming from the Greek root "wyrd," meaning "fate." The first scene involving witches or "weird sisters" also indicates relation to the idea of fate vs. free will, aside from setting the creepy tone.
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ReplyDeleteI agree that the witches give off a very creepy vibe. What I think is interesting is thunder seem to follow the witches around. Without the witches, the play would lose some of its sinister feeling.
DeleteI agree that the dark nature scences correlate to the dark and eerie vibe of the play. The entire play just seems like one big creepy, sad, and cheesy horror film.
DeleteLouis Jacobowitz (pd. 1) - Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteThe first act succeeds brilliantly in presenting Macbeth as a tragic hero, as early as the first scene. When the three witches reference him (I.I.8) the audience is immediately given the knowledge that this person is important, and in the next scene his bravery is specifically commended (I.II.18), and he is given a position of nobility (I.II.73-75). Already, from this point, Macbeth is established as a noble hero with the potential for greatness - as well as the potential to fall from his lofty position. This position is threatened in scene three, in which he is promised the kingship(I.III.55). This promise, as soon as the witches' credibility is established, will fuel his hubris for the remainder of the story. These witches also serve the purpose of foreshadowing the plot and setting fate in motion - effectively dooming Macbeth to fate, and thus to fail eventually. And by the end of Scene five, Macbeth has clearly been set up with a dilemma - to kill the king and take his promised fortune, or to be loyal to his ruler? And rather than bad or good, Macbeth is portrayed as indecisive, still wanting the fortune fate has in store for him but afraid to do what he knows is necessary to secure that fortune (I.VII.40) - yet another trait of a tragic hero. Macbeth's characterization covers all bases for the establishment of a tragic hero.
Molly McEvoy (2nd)- Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe three witches, while only seen for a short period at the beginning of Act one, play a huge role in the tragic downfall of Macbeth. By relaying his future to him, seeds of greed and ambition begin to grow. But their role is much bigger than just foreseeing the future. Their speeches bring about an eerie and mysterious mood to the play, especially with their references to the natural world. As Amanda stated earlier, Macbeth is set in early Scotland, where much of the country was still just wilderness and unknown to the inhabitants of the country. There people, while still under the judicial rule of a king and his subordinates, were also subject to another power, that of their surrounding natural world. This unknown world causes the play to have a sense of uncertainty to it. The reader thinks they can foresee what is around the next bend, but then all of a sudden, a twist pops up from behind a nearby tree.
I like the idea of seeds of greed and ambition growing in Macbeth, this is a very interesting way to look at things especially after our discussion yesterday. I agree that the play has a sense of uncertainty to it as well as it being a good read because the reader never knows what is coming.
DeleteI love the analysis of how Scotland would be at the time the play was written and how this state would effect the perception of the natural imagery the witches used. I also think that the way the witches use so many references to nature exemplifies their own super-naturalness. They are not bound to the confines of earth like the common person, however they still respect the power of nature.
DeleteI think its very interesting how you brought up the point that the witches themselves relaying Macbeths fate to him sort of pushed him into his own fate, I agree that their role was very vital in the way the play progressed.
DeleteKatherine Concepcion, Pd. 2 - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe first mention of imagery in the witches’ spell is about stormy weather conditions. They mention “thunder, lightning, and rain”, all suggesting that something destructive is about to ensue. It gives your mind words to contemplate and eventually it creates a dark and clouded image in your head. The third witch then mentions the setting of the sun, following the stormy weather. The setting of the sun represents the potential that Macbeth will be King. But then at the end they say that “Fair is foul and foul is fair.” This suggest that even though the battle that is bloody and violent may seem like the storm and the culmination of Macbeth coming out as a “hero” may seem like the first glimpse of a sunny day- things are not always as they seem. The spell suggests that even though it may seem worth it to do something bad to “achieve” something good, it can easily be reversed and result in negative effects.
The imagery in the scenes involving the witches is vivid and suggestive towards a darker ulterior motive. I think your use of the word "destructive" is really accurate, and emphasizes that the pursuit of power (Macbeth's) is self-destructive.
DeleteHannah Cooper(1st Period)- Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteAct one of Macbeth begins with the three witches talking creepily among themselves. This sets the play up with a very creepy tone. They ask if they are going to be meeting again in thunder, lightning, or rain, which shows the reader that the setting is not going to be pleasant. The witches chant "Fair is foul, and foul is fair Hover through the fog and filthy air," giving off a disturbing vibe while describing their surroundings. Because the witches don't appear to be positive characters, the negative weather around them could personify their negative personalities. Shakespeare uses a lot of language that describes nature in the play Macbeth. He even compares success to violent storms that occur just as spring appears. The focus on nature in the play creates a strange mood. The nature that is used in the play is related to the kinds of things we would consider a disturbance, such as a thunderstorm. In my opinion, the negative aspects of nature set the play up to have a negative plot that contains a lot of unpleasant activities. The supernatural aspect of the witches adds to the idea that there are forces acting on the characters that they cannot control, causing them to act in ways that we would consider to be highly outrageous and negative.
Austin Gain (1st) - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe focus on nature by the three witches creates an open atmosphere for the reader. This open, natural atmosphere is equally enhanced by the inherent, foreboding opening dialogue by the witches. At the very first line of the play, "when shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or rain," the mood is then portrayed as menacing and gloomy. These choice words used in the opening scene help to drift the reader into a tragic state of mind. The words, "thunder, lightning, and rain" are utilized in order to create a tragic setting in the eyes of the reader. The reader can then begin to envision the scene, and become engulfed in the accompanying mood that has been set forth. The mood of the scene is highly dependent on the surrounding scenery and the use of diction and imagery. In the case of the witches, the imagery of a coming storm is used as both a foreshadowing agent, as well as a tool to help the reader become entranced by the scene.
Evan Casey – Period 6 – Casting Spells:
ReplyDeleteThe witches in Macbeth are the personification of fate and the anticipation, fear, and inevitability of the future. The 3 witches could be an allusion to mythology and are comparable in many ways to the Fates, three sisters who predict the future and weave time itself. This focus on nature and fate begins the play with a basic premise of “Nothing anybody does will matter because their future is predetermined”, instead of giving the audience the illusion that all actions are significant and performed through free will.
At the beginning, the witches summon elements of nature (thunder, lightning, rain, wind) and this establishes their powers as supernatural and gives high credibility to these mysterious beings in their words and actions. This is the turning point in which the audience will take their word as infallible and irrefutable and also places the witches into their role as the masters of the setting of “Macbeth”.
Elizabeth Vicario, pd. 2- Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth comes off as fierce from the moment that the audience meets her. She is a passionate woman who feels strongly for many things. Though in the reading of Macbeth's letter in Act 1 Scene 5 she briefly declares her love and excitement at his coming home, she soon switches the subject to the couple's future in the palace. Her ambition takes over the scene and eventually she resolves to get to the crown by whatever means necessary. She knows of her husband's ambition, but finds him full of "th' milk of human kindness," which she believes will impede his ability to seize the crown. In this first scene we are merely introduced to the lady's cunning sense of opportunity.
Macbeth himself does much of the contemplation featured in the beginning of Scene 7, but soon his wife takes control of the situation by becoming the man he is when he drinks. She uses his obvious adoration for her to her own advantage, claiming that if he can only kill a man when intoxicated, he only loves her when intoxicated. She calls into question certain gender roles, accusing him of cowardice in an attempt to manipulate him into taking things into his own hands.
Sometimes it's hard to resist the urge to manipulate others by abusing their adoration and respect, but I've found that the best persuasion comes with reason. Lady Macbeth argues that the means justify the end, and that these are the necessary steps in order to get the crown for their own. She even compares Macbeth to a cat that contemplates snagging a fish from the river but refuses to wet its paws. It's nonsensical that he wait for something necessary to happen. Macbeth himself finally seals the deal with his conscience through reason; he decides that rather than waiting for the king's eventual death, he should save the world some time and get something out of the situation by killing him right then.
Walker Morrell
DeleteI agree that Lady Macbeth uses some reason in her argument to convince Macbeth to carry out the evil deed. However, I believe that the most persuasive part of her argument is centered upon pathos, the emotional aspect of what she says. She insults Macbeth's worthiness as a man and leader and emotionally forces his hand into agreeing the murder King Duncan. Her logic also played a large role in her argument, however I believe the emotional aspect of what she said ultimately influenced Macbeth's decision the greatest.
Sirisha Karra (1st) - Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth's main tactic in killing Duncan was the fact that she questioned Macbeth's manhood. She specifically calls him a coward, and questions the fact of whether or not he is really a man, and whether or not he can even go through with the job. "When you durst do it, then you were a man;", and she continues on to tell him how she thinks he ought to be killed.
In reference to the second and third questions, I believe that her persuasion techniques is something that anyone can use. If it was a woman to a man, it would be smart to question their manhood, in the sense to get them to do what you wanted them to do. If it were a man to a woman, make them feel more emotionally attached to the subject in order to make them feel how it would really be. Brianna pointed out a while back that the power of persuasion for Lady Macbeth has a strong tie for her want and greed for power, which shows just how much it goes right back to the statement of "would you do anything to gain power". This is a prime example of that.
I agree with the fact that Lady Macbeth targets a characteristic that was believed to be very important back then in manhood. If a man were called out as a coward and did not stand up and prove himself, he would be shamed and no longer be considered brave. I do find it interesting how Lady Macbeth has so much power over Macbeth that she is able to control his actions and force him to do her will.
DeleteI agree with Justin to a certain extent, but Lady Macbeth could only sway Macbeth's judgement so easily because of his own personal flaws. Lady Macbeth seemingly controls him, but he made the decisions himself.
Deletei agree with with Dylan Lady Macbeth is not controlling Macbeth he's making it seen like she is, Macbeth is just as ambition or even Ambition but i feel he's not letting us see that side to him yet.
DeleteWalker Morrell (1st Period) Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe rich and nature-related imagery the witches use exemplifies the mysteriousness of their proclamations and well as showing how man's actions are not in their own hands. Right from the beginning, the ominous imagery references the kind of weather they will meet in, "thunder, lightning, or in rain." All three of these weather events are powerful and have negative connotations as they're all part of a storm. This imagery is relatable to all people and sets a dark tone for the play. Another line from the same act also exemplifies this: “hover through the fog and filthy air.” More dark imagery with stormy nature references creates a dim and gloomy mood for the play.
Also, the witches’ use of the dark forces of nature in their imagery creates a powerless mood. Man can be in control of many things, but man can never be in control of the weather. Weather, particularly the storms the witches often discuss, is unpredictable and always has the potential to be devastating. This parallels the mood in the play and also indicates to the reader the supernatural qualities of the witches. Just like the weather, the witches are above mankind and uncontrollable in their actions.
I agree that the opening scene does a great job in establishing a setting. I think the point about the mood indicating supernaturality is also valid.
DeleteI think you really got the part about the weather being 'ominous' and the witches' dark powers, and how they reflect the negative mood in the play.
DeleteBrennan Lewis (6th) - Macbeth, Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth was particularly sly in her approach to pressuring Macbeth to kill King Duncan. She reacts angrily when Macbeth admits to feeling guilty for wanting to murder the king, though he cites that the king has looked upon him favorably as of late and it should be his job to protect Duncan as both host and loyal subject. Insulting Macbeth's masculinity and pride, Lady Macbeth calls him a "coward in thine own esteem" (22) and says that "[he] would be so much more the man" (22) if he carries out his plan. She reassures him that all will go well, and compliments his bravery and ambition in admitting his desire in the first place, essentially saying that the end justifies the means.
In my own life, I strive to avoid personal attacks when arguing with someone. I generally avoid conflict whenever possible, but when I absolutely must stand up for myself or a friend I try to "kill them with kindness." I believe that rudeness breeds animosity, and does not lend itself to productivity or any kind of positive growth. When asking for something I want, I also try to be aware of the boundaries of other people. If someone is uncomfortable giving me something that I ask of them, then I draw the line there and don't push it. Lady Macbeth, on the other hand, places her own ambitions above those of others, and has little regard for creating positive change with her actions.
Your life mantra will bring you great success!
DeleteRachel Matsumura (2) – Blank Verse
ReplyDeleteAct I Scene V, Lady Macbeth: “Glamis thou art, and Cawdor… to have thee crowned withal.” (14-29)
10/12/12/10, 10/12/10/12 – syllable patterns for lines 14-21
Act I Scene VII, Macbeth: “If it were done when… And falls on th’ other.” (1-29)
10/12/10/10, 10/10/11/10, 11/13/13 – syllable patterns for lines 1-11
Most of the variations in iambic pentameter in these sections involve more syllables rather than less. These discrepancies are a change in pace for both the actor and the audience- instead of being pulled into the usual “lull” of iambic pentameter, it serves as an indicator that something important is being said or performed. Both these particular speeches serve as expressions of what would usually be internalized “moral consideration,” an important theme that will make recurring appearances throughout the play. Lady Macbeth is focused on ridding her husband of any hindrances to his pursuit of the crown, and Macbeth is expressing his warring morals.
The witches speak in blank, rhymed verse, to emphasize the difference between them and the rest of the characters in the play. The rhyme serves to make the witches more memorable, as well as highlighting their supernatural qualities. A similar effect is achieved when Lady Macbeth reads correspondence from her husband aloud to begin Act V. Shakespeare places significance on what she is saying and how she is saying it, which shapes the audience’s perception of her. Using prose here also allows the audience to further understand Macbeth’s perspective, and how he feels about becoming king.
I agree that when the characters are expressing great emotion or making important decisions they use more syllables than in standard iambic pentameter. In class we learned that people of nobility are the only ones who speak in iambic pentameter regularly so this is why I believe the witches only speak in verse.
DeleteJosh Moore 6th period - Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteWhen Macbeth is first introduced as a character, one of the first things said about him is how noble he is and how honorable a person he is. When meeting Macbeth, it becomes apparent that he also thinks of himself as an honorable and noble man, possibly a hero in his own mind as well as others, showing off his hubris. With the prior knowledge that Macbeth is a tragedy, it is easy to spot what his hamartia will be and how it will lead to his downfall. His fate is also predicted by the three witches that represent the three fates in the beginning. This being said, it does not prevent the audience, knowing or not, from hoping that Macbeth can still put all of the pieces back together, even with the murder and all that has happened. As is the point of a tragedy, to evoke pity, the glimmer of hope remains through act one that things could turn out well, despite knowing it will not.
Ashley Siebelink
ReplyDeletePeriod 6
Casting Spells
The witches in Macbeth, written by Shakespeare, are considered to be the Fates, or Moirai according to greek mythology. Although they are known by many names, in Macbeth they are just called Three Witches. These witches controlled a thread of life and death of all human beings and literally weaved their fates, hence their name. While the Moirai in Greek mythology are generally more passive creatures, the witches in Macbeth play a more prominent role and directly contact Macbeth and make statements about his fate to him (one notable example being the announcement that he is now Thane of Cawdor). The way that the witches command nature is indicative of their association with the otherworldly and the “seances” (for lack of a better word) that they hold to command forces of nature are meant to represent some magical or mythical ritual that the audience is not supposed to understand, yet acknowledge the power and importance of. The mystery surrounding the witches is supposed to help them to maintain the balance of being a neutral character: they are not to be completely trusted and yet they do not seem to have evil intentions.
As the beginning of the play, the witches do give us an introduction to the play's central themes and the variety of moods exhibited. I do agree on the fact that the witches cannot be trusted or have not exhibited evil intentions yet. The fact that the scene opens with the three witches give us a hint as to how the witches further develop the story, and what they will contribute to the main characters.
DeleteYes i agree, the witches are the fates just waiting to cut the thread. I didn't really think of the concept that the witches were controlling nature although it does make a valid point and I can totally see the witches controlling the weather just to control the mood and whatever the seem fit.
DeleteDeepak Badveli, Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth has manipulated her husband to listen to her and was coerced with her plans to be seen as a true man. Even having doubts later which was quickly vanquished when Macbeth’s wife was outraged and called him a coward and knowing that he has hubris (which most tragic heroes have), he agreed with her ambitions. “[Lady Macbeth] Live a coward in thine own esteem… [Macbeth] I dare do all that may become a man” is evidence from the play. Her great strategic planning has finally encroached on his final attempts to convince himself to stop doing something which he will regret. How do I get what I want? Well simply, I try to be polite to get what I want from the benefactor if that does not work I will stay a bit persistent to obtain what I want. If they can withstand the annoyance then I will just give in and forget about it. My tactics does differ a great deal to Lady Macbeth. It does not consist of ambition to obtain something no matter what it takes nor does my actions are that murky. But things are not what it seems so maybe I am a bit compelled to get what I want.
Good job. I got the same message from the reading. Lady Macbeth seems very manipulative.
DeleteI agree with you in the sense that Lady Macbeth's manipulativeness will lead to her downfall eventually.
DeleteVarsha Kulasekarapandian (2) –Casting spells
ReplyDeleteThe witches in act 1 scene 1 of Macbeth clearly create a very ominous and dark tone, it is almost as if the witches themselves personify several elements that influence people’s lives. I think its really interesting how the three witches actually directly communicate with Macbeth and other characters in the play rather than just narrating or over- looking the story. This creates an even stronger connection between fate and the present reality of the story, almost as if fate itself can cause the characters to act in certain ways. They represent the darkness and mystery of the story, the words “thunder, lightning, and rain” all foreshadow an unfortunate series of events. The role of the witches serves a very crucial aspect of the entire play in that it brings in fate/ predetermined destiny. It shows that the actions are not all placed in the hands of the characters, but merely that they are like puppets playing out a story. The presence of a natural force shows how powerful the influence of fate can play and even those with the potential to be great such as tragic heroes are no exception.
Justin Ledinh- Pd. 6- Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteImmediately from the brink of battle, the characteristics of a tragic hero can be seen in Macbeth. He is a strong and commanding man, who fights with bravery and is also in a position of high power. He is also given knowledge of his fate to become king of the land by the witches in Act 1 Scene 3, however his arrogance and ambition is prevalent as he attempts to retrieve more information from the witches. Macbeth is seen desiring to obtain more land as king, however he contemplates the positives and negatives of killing Duncan. By the end of the act however, the scene involving Lady Macbeth trying to persuade Macbeth to assassinate Duncan foreshadows Macbeth's fall, as prior to the meeting Macbeth had decided not to kill Duncan.
As we learned in class, Macbeth's tragic flaw is his hubris, or excessive pride and arrogance, which also can be seen in other tragic heroes such as Julius Caesar and Oedipus Rex. My prediction is that Macbeth's desire to become king will overpower his moral compass and force him to kill Duncan and anyone else in his path. At the end however, I believe that there will be some force that turns against him such as a mob or a close friend that will cause Macbeth's downfall.
I like how you mentioned Oedipus Rex. As I was reading the first Act, the parallels kept running through my mind. I also agree that at first he processes the pros and cons of killing Duncan, but once Lady Macbeth persuades him, his mind becomes set that he must do it.
DeleteI agree. I also think that Lady Macbeth helps foreshadow Macbeth's downfall, as she forces him to take an action that he doesn't necessarily want to do in killing Duncan. I also like how you brought in loyalty, as after Macbeth learns of his fate he immediately no longer has regard for his king and just wants to be in that position.
ReplyDeleteElijah Bader-Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth convinces Macbeth to kill Duncan by manipulating him. She makes him feel like he is weak and not a man and even says that she would do it herself. She says,
“Art thou afeard
To be the same in thine own act and valour
As thou art in desire? Wouldst thou have that
Which thou esteem'st the ornament of life,
And live a coward in thine own esteem,”
Lady Macbeth also tells him he will be so much more than what he is when he becomes king. Macbeth becomes greedy and now is no longer happy with his new title of Thane of Cawdor.
I try to just ask for what I want, but if that doesn’t work and I really want something I try to show how important it is to me. Although it really depends on the person. With my parents I will compliment them and talk about something I know they want to talk about then try to slide what I want in our conversation. With people that I’m close to I may show my anger by not talking or having an argument.
My tactic differs from Lady Macbeth’s. She tries to make people feel bad about themselves to get what she wants and I think I show people that I feel bad to get what I want. I would say her method is similar to the U.S. foreign policy in the sense that she tries to hurt people to get what she wants.
I agree that Lady Macbeth brings others down to get what she wants but I believe she tries to make them feel bad for her as well. I think one of the main reasons she got Macbeth to follow through with the plan was because she got him to thinking about how it would affect her as well if he didn't carry it out.
DeleteI agree with all of your points! I especially like your comparison of her tactics to U.S. foreign policy.
DeleteI agree with what you said about Lady Macbeth's tactics. What do you think would have happened if she used your tactic of giving Macbeth the cold shoulder? It's funny to me how Lady Macbeth has no other name than "Lady Macbeth" yet she is a much more powerful character than Macbeth. Also, the next time you want something from me, maybe you should show anger by using Lady Macbeth's tactics, because that would be very funny.
DeleteLady Macbeth convinces her husband to kill Duncan by manipulating him emotionally and telling him that he won't fail. At first, she tries to guilt him into carrying out his plan because he had already told her that he would try and kill the King. She expressed how it would be unfair of him for him to not keep his word especially when it would bring the both of them power and riches. She then explained how she would help him with the plan and explained how they would blame the murder on the servants who she was going to get drunk. She made the plan seem foolproof and contributed to the plan by promising to act like a good hostess, get the servants drunk and assist in the actual murdering of Duncan. Macbeth wasn't really given a choice in the matter even though she made him think he did have a choice. If Macbeth decided not to kill the king, Lady Macbeth would've most likely killed him herself.
ReplyDeleteWhenever I want to convince something of someone I present them with all of the benefits of the action and make it sound like there are no negatives. I also continue to ask until I get my way. This is very similar to Lady Macbeth's tactics but my convincing methods are used to convince my parents to let me go places with friends or get new clothes rather than using these methods to convince someone to murder someone else.
Do you really believe that Lady Macbeth would is that ambitious that she would kill the king herself? I like how your post ties back into the seminar questions. It shows that anyone is capable of evil and that some people are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals such as Lady Macbeth being willing to kill the King to gain a higher position.
DeleteThis is what we talked about in class, I agree with this statement.
DeleteDylan Kruesi- Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteRight from the get go, you can see that Macbeth possesses the qualities of a hero. Macbeth is financially stable, powerful, and valiant in war. These are all qualities of heroism, but since Macbeth is a tragedy you can also see that he suffers from a great deal of hubris and you start to get the sense of how he will inevitably fall. The worst thing that could’ve happened to Macbeth was discovering that he was destined to be king because Lady Macbeth began to easily sway the mind of her husband who lusted for power. Macbeth always praised King Duncan and respected the man, but his aspirations and his wife’s greed led to him quickly planning the demise of the king he humbly served. It is clear that Macbeth is morally weak at this point, and it once again calls into question whether or not you can have ambitions and still maintain integrity. Macbeth does a poor job of maintaining integrity, and you quickly begin to see his inevitable fall.
I agree that Macbeth does a poor job of maintaining his integrity which of course, will lead to his downfall. Why do you think it was so easy for his wife to sway him to kill King Duncan? Do you think Macbeth is responsible for his fate?
DeleteI think this ultimately supports the notion that the characters in Macbeth seem to have no free will whatsoever. Your statements about how the witches "symbolize a greater being than the naturalized man of the present" and how their language "furnishes a helpless aspect to the humanity of piece" portray them in an omnipotent light, which, if they are to symbolize the Fates of mythology, is certainly an accurate declaration.
ReplyDeleteKadijah Holder (1st period) - Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth chooses different tactics to convince Macbeth to kill Duncan. She uses Macbeth’s emotions to convince him. At first, Lady Macbeth is taunting Macbeth, basically saying he does not love her enough to do it. Then, immediately, she calls him a coward, “Which thou esteem’st the ornament of life, and live a coward in thine own esteem..” since he has been telling her that he would kill Duncan, but has not yet completed the tasks and continues to hesitate on it. She continues to speak upon his manhood, “When you durst do it, then you were a man,” basically explaining that if he is truly a man, he would follow through with his promise. She wants Macbeth to keep his promise and even says that she would have followed through with her promise had she made it. She also attempts to convince Macbeth that they could possibly get away with the murder of Duncan. Usually, I just wait till the day before to ask for something I want. For example, if I want to use my mom’s car to drive up to Enloe on Saturday, I ask her on Friday or sometimes, Thursday. Our tactics differ because I don’t guilt my mom, or call her a coward, or any of the other emotional tactics that Lady Macbeth forces upon Macbeth. I just simply come out and ask for what I want. If I get it, then I’m happy, if I don’t then I drop it. The only times when I would try to play on my mom’s emotion is when I want to see my boyfriend, I remind her how I don’t often go out and how good of a kid I am.
It seems that manipulation is not only an interest for story writters but for real life as well. I like how she basically used reverse psychology on Macbeth even though at the time such a thing was unknown. You post was very enlightening.
DeleteHeavenlee Burt (6th) - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteNature, especially the seasons, are common place in many plays especially Shakespeare’s. Nature is great to use because it can be so tangible in works. The way an author may describe the nature personally always evoke different feelings on the reader due to what the author is trying to get across to the reader. The feeling could be ominous, happy, eerie, depressing or filled with rage but just the diction of words. Nature is also pure, so very pure of any of the contamination made by man. Without mans influence on the beauty that is nature then it can be seen as a source of freedom and new birth. In this case Shakespeare uses nature to show how unnatural some things appear to be even if they are the most natural in the world. "What are these, So wither'd and so wild in their attire, That look not like the inhabitants o' the earth, And yet are on't?" Nature is also seen as wild giving the passage such a free and full of life tone.
You made a good point, I didn't see it that way.
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DeleteThis is a good analysis, and makes it clear why the sisters use nature imagery
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ReplyDeleteRight away Shakespeare introduces Macbeth as a tragic hero. He is successful, known as a powerful man, and has his life put together. Unfortunately, his ambition and hunger for more power will be his hubris. Everyone in the play knows of Macbeth and his capabilities. Both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are attracted to the thought of ruling the land and get so caught up in their pride and greed they immediately turn into people who will do anything to get their way even if it includes Macbeth killing Duncan. The witches also set up Macbeth's fate and how he is destined to be something great but at the same time they say imperfect things to him. I think the witches are what cause Macbeth to begin to think that he is already King and fueled his sense of pride. The prophecy that the witches told ended up being something he wanted to hear and took it for granted. In the end Macbeth is a true tragedy and his pride and destined fate is what sets him up for failure and leading him into his tragic hero downfall.
ReplyDeleteVictoria Wiktor (2) - Tragic Hero
Delete(for some reason that didn't copy and paste)
Justin Magin (1st pd) – Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth convinces Macbeth to murder Duncan by questioning him, as a man. Macbeth, being the tragic hero he is, succumbs to the insult to his masculine nature and manliness. His pride gets in the way of possibly making a better decision. This, of course, is one characteristic of the tragic hero.
I ask for what I want differently than Lady Macbeth. Lady Macbeth uses insults to Macbeth’s self-esteem that “forces” him to have no choice other than to prove his masculinity by slaying Duncan. I think we all have small tactics for getting something we want. Often times this revolves around who and when. Time and place is crucial to getting what we want. People are often most vulnerable to persuasion when they are looking for external approval. The desire for others to approve, inevitably causes persuasion. In Macbeth’s case, he is not seeking approval because he convinces himself, with his pride, that he is already manly and a hero. Yet, when someone close to him puts a “chink in his armor” he must react to prove himself as a man to himself and Lady Macbeth.
I like that you took a slightly different approach to this question in connecting persuasion to people's need for external approval. I agree that Lady Macbeth first attacks Macbeth, and then offers him a way to redeem himself, so to speak - by killing Duncan.
DeleteI agree with you and Vickie about the persuasion and external approval connection, and also about his pursuit of masculinity being a part of his tragic hero qualities.
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ReplyDeleteI agree Justin. Loyalty was a good add-in because we get to see the change in Macbeth's allegiance once he learns what is to come of him.
ReplyDeleteHelen Foyle – Period 6 – Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteIn the opening scene of Macbeth, three witches are found in the midst of a storm, their dialogue rich with references to the phenomena of nature. Storms, such as the current weather of the scene and the consequent mentions of thunder, lighting, and rain, are commonly symbolic of death. They often appear in literature during times of war or the dramatic loss of a loved one. The fact that the witches are discussing when they shall next meet: “In thunder, lightning, or in rain?” could be representative of the plotting of a death, and after the death has occurred, they will meet once more. This lurking murderous plot creates an air of savagery and mystery.
The supposed focus on death in this scene, as seen in nature-related imagery such as stormy weather and the setting of a sun (a metaphor Shakespeare used for death in Sonnet 73), seems to align with the elements of gothic writing styles. It has a bit of a creepy Edgar Allan Poe feel, which, as Renaissance writers typically broke away from gothic styles, doesn’t seem to fit with the radical writing styles of the time. But perhaps this could be symbolic of a way to perceive the supernatural and ideas of fate dictating events and actions as outdated and deceitful.
I like the connection to Sonnet 73's sun metaphor and the symbolism of the weather typically used throughout literature.
DeleteChristina Zhou (2nd) - Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteMacbeth is the framework for a tragic hero. Macbeth encompasses the character of noble stature and is well respected by many in his community, he although preemptively great, is not perfect. We, the audience essentially see bits and pieces of Macbeth's behavior, let it be selfishness or greed, in ourselves thus experience catharsis. Although we aren't yet aware of Macbeth's Hubris, we are aware that the play will end in death due to the fact that it is a tragedy. As Macbeth is given the prophecy to be great and ultimately become king of the land, his greed results in him killing Duncan. The three witches essentially build the frame work for the tragic hero that is Macbeth
Vickie Wang (2nd Period) - Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth fears that Macbeth is too kind to kill Duncan in order to become King, so she takes the initiative to suggest the murder plan to him. When Macbeth begins to have doubts, Lady Macbeth ruthlessly causes him to feel guilty for it. She attacks his love for her, his courage, and his very manhood. "From this time / such I account thy love," she says disparagingly in 1.7.42-43, comparing his love to his resolution, which is lacking and fickle. She goes on to call him a coward and accuses him of not keeping his promises, saying that she would even kill her own nursing baby if she had promised to.
Personally, I tend to ask repeatedly for what I want until people give in. I think that Lady Macbeth's tactic is only effective because she is the one who holds more power in the relationship: Macbeth's guilt causes him to obey her rather than retort with equal heat.
I agree with you about asking repeatedly to get what I want.
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ReplyDeleteKeara Klinge - Casting Spells - period 1
ReplyDelete"The weird sisters, hand in hand,
Posters of the sea and land" (Scene 3)
"What are these
So wither'd and so wild in their attire,
That look not like the inhabitants o' the earth,
And yet are on't?" (Banquo, Scene 3)
Although they call themselves posters of the sea and land, they appear abnormal or even supernatural to other characters. They are not described, but one can imagine how they look - appearing during the rain, their hair would be wet, and they might be covered in earth or something similar. I imagine meeting these witches would be an experience similar to walking through a dark, damp forest at night, when it's pitch black and there are odd noises everywhere and you have no idea if you'll make it out alive. The fact that the play opens with this is significant also, because jumping into the main plot without a foreboding sense would disillusion the reader. If the supernatural truly is involved in this play, the witches give that theme a good introduction as well.
Diu Rahlan (p.6)- Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth convince Macbeth to kill Duncan by pressuring him and making him feel guilty if he does not kill Duncan. Lady Macbeth call Macbeth a coward and question whether he is a real man or not. “When you durst do it,” she says, “then you were a man”. Lady Macbeth made him feel like he had to kill Duncan in order to prove to her that he is a real man.
I would ask very politely and try to do good things for them, like cleaning the dishes or cook the rice. I would beg and tell them that my other friends are getting it or try to talk them into letting me have want I want. Yes,it is very different from Lady Macbeth because of I do not use insults or make them feel guilty in any ways.
Svetak Sundhar pd 6 Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe opening scene looks surreal in a sense. We see thunder and these witches casting spells, which leads me to believe that there is an element of supernaturalism in the opening of the book. I predict that throughout the book, we will continue observing these elements of supernaturalism, causing the book to reflect ambitions outside of the human norm.
The very nature of the story at this point in time can be described as dark and gloomy. Of course, with such limited knowledge, there is no way of knowing what will happen next, but I predict that as we go through the rising action, some element of supernaturalism will lead to a plot twist.
True, and Shakespeare makes sure to infuse that element of super-naturalism into the play in the very first scene by showing the three witches. Dark and gloomy for sure!
DeleteI really enjoyed how the three different videos had three different takes on how the first scene was supposed to be viewed.
DeleteI agree. It does seem that Macbeth got too confident after the battle, and that he could claim anything he desired.
ReplyDeleteBettylenah Njaramba (1st period) - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteWhether through providing a time period or to reflect the emotions of the plot, the role of nature often plays a vital role in literature. Especially during the prime of the humanistic era, in which Shakespeare wrote most of his work. The witches provide an intimidating yet powerful entrance and they summon thunder, lightening & rain to do so. The fog adds a sense of mystery and curiosity because the audience is unsure where the witches can't from.
Interesting how the witches seem to have such a powerful influence on the weather! Also interesting how weather can be such a powerful influence on our mood, and honestly also the mood of the play.
DeleteI agree, the witches have a mysterious sort of vibe about them. The weather also has a deep meaning in the play. Giving the reader a spooky feeling.
DeleteKevin Gao (2) Power of Persuasion-
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth is already plotting Duncan’s murder before we even get to her scene. I think that she was able to convince Macbeth to go through with the killing because of how much more ruthless she was compared to him. As stated before, Macbeth does not, for the moment, have the ambition that Lady Macbeth has, and trying to lure Macbeth with the desire for power and greatness is part of Lady Macbeth’s power of persuasion. She in essence made Macbeth feel inadequate because he didn’t feel it was ‘right’ to kill Duncan, and like Sirisha mentioned, she was mocking his dignity and his manhood, even wishing that she were a man herself so that she could do it instead.
I don’t think it is ethical to bait one’s emotions with harsh comments or promises of desires that would turn out to have bad consequences. I would rather try to reason with someone, or try to explain to them why they should go through with a plan.
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ReplyDeleteGordon Ma (6th) – Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteLike many of the Greek gods that we learn about in classic literature, the witches in Act I contribute a sense of supernaturalism into the play, often with a sinister quality. They do remind me of some of Hades’ underlings, who “fly away through the fog and filthy air” and seem to have control over the weather and hence the mood of the play. Their clever rhyme schemes (“Fair is foul, and foul is fair. Let’s fly away through the fog and filthy air”) and dependence on each other could also be a reference to the three fates of Greek mythology. Or else, why would there be exactly three witches? Each plays a critical role in the life of Macbeth, much like how each of the three fates contributes to the lives of every mortal from birth to death. Regardless of exactly why Shakespeare put the three witches in Macbeth, their supernatural qualities and undeniably creepy attributes make more an intensely sinister mood when they appear.
I like how you compared the three witches with the three fates from Greek mythology. This can give us an important hint about how sinister they are and what actions the witches may perform later on in the play.
DeleteI also found it interesting how the three witches are (most likely) women yet they play such a prominent role in a play from such a long time ago. It was not often that women were portrayed with such power back then.
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ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth is manipulating Macbeth by calling him a coward and questing his love for her as you will see in this line “Which thou esteem’st the ornament of life, and live a coward in thine own esteem..” she's trying to get him to go thought with the plans of killing Duncan. Lady Macbeth is a woman of high ambitions and greed she would do what whatever it takes to get what she wants. Like Brianna mentioned that lady Macbeth is driven by greed that proves there's no limit to what she willing to do.
ReplyDeleteThe tactics that Lady Macbeth used was very harsh , but well though of personally i will never used or try to used those tactics on any on , looking at it for the modern day world is looked down on to question the livelihood/ manhood of a man , no man wants to be questioned about his decisions or feel emasculated .
I like how you compared it to modern day but I feel like back in this era it was more frown apon to question a man. Us women didn't seem to have much of a say
Delete@angel Johnson are you trying to say that for the women in that era try to emasculate their men to make them feel that they had some sort of power even though they didn't ?
DeleteAngel Johnson pd:6 Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteWhen Macbeth returns he was urged by his wife Lady Macbeth, who seems to be more ambitious than her husband. She continues to manipulate Macbeth to go through with the murder of King Duncan and to do so she questions his manhood. She even says he’s soft and finds him full of "th' milk of human kindness,".
In response to the second and third question I’d like to think I’m upfront I wouldn’t manipulate anyone. If I wanted it enough I’d get it myself. Lady Macbeth crossed some major barriers by saying she'd kill her own child. She asking him to commit an unforgivable crime against a decent man and calls her husband a coward for not wanting to do so.
I totally agree saying that she would kill her child if she said she would shows how fair show can go to achieve what she wants.
DeleteKayla Curry PD.2 Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteThe three witches use a lot of nature imagery when they are speaking. Even at the start of the play the sisters come in and there is thunder and lightening everywhere. This obviously is imagery for something evil and it seems to always be dark when the witches are near. This imagery really works because the sisters seem like they are hiding something, but the readers do not know what yet. I think that the witches use nature as imagery because just like them, nature is very mysterious.
Thats true, in the beginning the witches give off the eerie feeling and then announce how they are going to meet with Macbeth.
DeleteI like that you said it makes it seem like the witches are hiding something especially because nature is mysterious. It's a direct simile with nature and the witches' personality.
DeleteSanjay Akkina(P2) - Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteLooking at the scene where the witches are introduced, it shows how much nature has an effect on the mood in the play. The scenery around them seems mysterious with there being thunder and rain in the background and the witches casting spells. Looking at this, the story gives off a dark nature which will present how the characters will show off their ambition toward their goal.
I agree that the dark nature of the very first scene will highlight the darkness of ambition's influence on morality. It is interesting how the similarities between setting and theme for Macbeth are so similar to the similarities between setting and theme for Heart of Darkness.
DeleteDivya Agarwal Pd. 1 Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteI believe that the first act establishes Macbeth as a tragic hero very well. Some of the characteristics of a tragic hero are that he/she is not perfect- they are neither good nor evil. Also, the hero’s downfall is entirely their fault and it far exceeds whatever wrongdoing they took part in. The tragic hero’s flaw is known as hamartia and often times the hamartia is hubris, or excess pride. Thus far in Act 1, Macbeth comes across as neither good nor evil because while he does not agree to his wife’s plan to murder the king, he does not entirely disagree with it either. It is clear that his downfall will occur from his own decision making, most likely his decision to assassinate the king. His hubris is evident from the fact that he believes he is capable of becoming king and will be successful in his plan to do so.
Kaylin Cooley 2nd- Casting Spells
ReplyDeleteStarting off in the play, you can instantly sense the eerie feeling. Already in the beginning, nature has an effect on the mood that is perceived. When the witches walk in, there’s thunder and lightning and it’s a foggy and gloomy day. We can only imagine how the conversation would go. They chant out interesting spells, which are unknown to the reader. Just by Shakespeare introducing the witches in a deep, dark environment, this gives the reader a suspicious mood towards the characters.
The thunder and lightning introduce an eerie and spooky mood which foreshadows that something bad will happen in the near future.
DeleteI agree that the reader can feel the suspicious mood towards the characters. The chanting of short phrases sets precedent for the negativity that is to come. It also seemed very suspenseful in the video we watched in class.
DeleteMildred Legbagah 2nd- Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteBefore Macbeth enters the scene we hear from other characters how brave and noble he is for going to battle to protect the kings land.The prophecies given to him by the witches which he ignores, Lady Macbeth's influence and plan, and his intensified ambition, all contributed greatly to his degeneration of character which resulted to his downfall...death. Therefore Macbeth character displays strong signs of a tragic hero, making him the ideal classic example.
Hassan Cameron 2nd Tragic Hero
ReplyDeleteIn the opening scene of Macbeth, three witches are found in the midst of a storm, their dialogue rich with references to the phenomena of nature. Storms, such as the current weather of the scene and the consequent mentions of thunder, lighting, and rain, are commonly symbolic of death. They often appear in literature during times of war or the dramatic loss of a loved one. The fact that the witches are discussing when they shall next meet: “In thunder, lightning, or in rain?” could be representative of the plotting of a death, and after the death has occurred, they will meet once more
The thunder, lightning and rain were symbolic of death. With the lines of the first scene, we see the witches planning their next meeting. It could symbolize their next meeting to plot a death, or murder. However the eerie atmosphere in which the witches met, sets the mood for the rest of the play. The negative aspects of this atmosphere foreshadow the occurrence of negative activities. The setting of the sun, discussed by the witches, might forshadow Macbeths fall. Shakespeare compares success to violent storms and shows a lot of negativity in this scene. The focus on nature provides an intriguing look into the tone of the play. Perhaps Shakespeare’s use of imagery exemplifies the fall and rebellion of King Duncan.
ReplyDeleteGood analyzes i totally didn't think about it like that .
ReplyDeleteWith the witches being in the main focus of the opening scene of the play and with them casting spells and giving the reader and audience lots imagery. I think that the witches did a great job creating the entire mood for the play. While the characters fight the entire time battling not only themselves, morals, and each other there is a constant battle. And so with the witches casting spells, most would call them evil but others would say that they were just practicing their faith. And so with not only the atmosphere being physically gray but also the thin line between black and white and the middle area of gray of what's right and wrong and where you stand.
ReplyDeleteMeredyth Albright - 2nd Period - Power of Persuasion
ReplyDeleteLady Macbeth wastes no time in working to get what she wants. The moment she reads the letter from Macbeth earlier in the scene, Lady Macbeth has her mind set on power; her ambition cannot be overcome. When she first greets Macbeth after he arrives from battle, Lady Macbeth addresses him as the Thane of Cawdor, wasting no time in making her ambitions clear by inflating his ego and giving him the confidence and shared ambition that he needs to kill King Duncan. On a side note, I find it fitting that Lady Macbeth is not given a name other than “Lady Macbeth.” This attests to her struggle to use her husband as the pawn to her power game; even though her hands are tied because of her gender, she is able to play her husband by convincing him to do her bidding and making him think that he is the one making his own choices to act on his ambitions, when really they are originally her ambitions. When Lady Macbeth catches wind of Macbeth’s doubt in Act One Scene Seven, she insults his masculinity by kvetching at him in a powerful monologue about how she would even kill her own infant in order to be loyal to Macbeth and their plan to kill King Duncan. Sexual appeal is a strong factor in her convincingness; however her rhetoric relies mostly upon puffing up Macbeth’s confidence, accusing him of being a coward, and then putting him at ease in their plan. My tactics are very different. I take a more pleasant approach by explaining to the person why I want what I want and why giving me what I want is good for them, too. If I am trying to convince someone to do something for me, I convince them of my equal willingness to do something for them, and make them feel as though if they do not do what I want, they will have to suffer terrible, unknown consequences. This usually works.