Macbeth Analysis: Act 1, Scene 1-2: Full Commentary

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See also my Macbeth Soliloquies Playlist:
   • Macbeth Soliloquies: Complete Analysis  

This video is a line-by-line walkthrough guide for William Shakespeare’s Macbeth: Act 1, Scene 1 and Scene 2.

For each scene, I provide a close reading of the text, including:
— Detailed explication
— Commentary
— Literary analysis

All commentary is supplemented by in-text, line-by-line study notes designed to help students:
— Prepare for GCSE, A-Level, IB, and AP evaluation
— Prepare for general quizzes and exams
— Generate ideas for analysis essays
— Participate knowledgeably in class discussions

This video contains 3 parts:

In the first part (from 00:08), I briefly explain the important historical and political background of the play. The Scottish feudal system and the Thane of Cawdor’s rebellion against good King Duncan are discussed. At 05:40, I introduce the main characters and themes.

In the second part (09:59), I read through Act 1, Scene 1. The Witches are introduced, as well as the important theme of Appearance vs Reality and Equivocation.

In the third part (17:00), I read through Act 1, Scene 2. The horrors of MacDonwald’s rebellion and Macbeth’s heroic exploits are discussed. King Duncan is revealed as grateful yet naive.

Writing a LITERATURE ANALYSIS ESSAY? See my practical guide, with model papers:
   • Literature Analysis Made Easy  

If you're interested in Shakespeare analysis, see my other playlists:

MACBETH:
   • Macbeth Scene by Scene Analysis  

For Macbeth THESIS STATEMENT prompts see:
   • Плейлист  

ROMEO and JULIET:
   • Romeo and Juliet  

For Romeo and Juliet THESIS STATEMENT prompts see:
   • Плейлист  

HAMLET:
   • Hamlet Scene by Scene  

For Hamlet THESIS STATEMENT prompts see:
   • Плейлист  

OTHELLO:
   • Othello  

TWELFTH NIGHT:
   • Twelfth Night