Understanding Macbeth Using Text Sets

Today we are going to go a little deeper into our discussion and analysis of Macbeth by looking at some text sets that can relate to different components of the play. We will be looking at themes, ideas, and various elements that some different texts and genres have in common with Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

CLICK TO VIEW MACBETH TEXT SET ACTIVITY!

This blog features creative text sets that can help students further their understanding of Macbeth. I have listed several different activities, posts, short stories, poems, and videos for students to strengthen their knowledge of the play. Below is a typed-out version of the text sets we will examine. The link above is a more visual companion to help students study Macbeth. I suggest starting there.

For our first text, go back and review Act 1 of Macbeth. Find different examples in this act where Shakespeare uses satirical commentary. Write down these examples and describe what these quotes mean in your own words. Next, read “The War Works Hard” by Dunya Mikhail.

“The War Works Hard” by Dunya Mikhail

To read the poem click here!

What does this poem have in common with Macbeth? Both texts discuss themes of war, policy, and leaders using the literary element of satirical commentary.

Writing Activity: Analyze these satirical comments and decide what truths or evidence show support for these claims. How does the tone further the satirical commentary or does it? What are these text’s comments about society? How does Shakespeare use the spirits to comment on Macbeth? Write your response as a journal entry.

“The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

Go back and review Act 2 Scene 2 of Macbeth.

Writing Activity: Analyze gender roles in Macbeth. What connections can you find between Lady Macbeth and our unnamed narrator in The Yellow Wallpaper? How do the men compare and contrast in both texts?

“The Masque of the Red Death” by Edgar Allan Poe

Discussion: Consider how ” The Masque of the Red Death” parallels Macbeth. Explain how Macbeth and Prince Prospero compare. How are the themes and messages in both stories similar? What are some similar examples of foreshadowing in these texts?

The Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan Scandal

After reviewing Act 4 Scene 2 of Macbeth, read about the Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan story.

Writing Activity: How might this real-life story be represented in Macbeth? How is there a difference between facts and truth in a vengeful story? Identify themes of betrayal and rivalry in both texts.

“Morality as Anti-Nature” by Friedrick Nietzche Summary

Discussion: What message does Shakespeare send about morality in Macbeth? How might Macbeth serve as a warning against Nietzche’s ideas?

TEXT SET AUDIOS