You have been invited to read:

MACBETH, BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

When:

May 3-May 31, 2012

Where: World Literature class Why: to introduce you to a famous play that has been read and performed for hundreds of
years!

How:

through in class readings and analysis, small and whole group discussion, regular assessments and homework assignments, and plenty of support from your teacher

What to bring: A spirit of adventure, curiosity, confidence, and a positive and

inquisitive mind!

Learning Objectives: Students will tackle a difficult text and be able to make meaning out of Shakespeares language Students will identify and track various themes in the play in preparation for their Benchmark Portfolio task Students will analyze characters and be able to make connections and comparisons to modern-day leaders and dictators Assessments: 1. Homework assignments on the text 2. Frequent in-class checks for understanding 3. Quizzes 4. Five-paragraph literary analysis essay on the play

Essay Topics / Themes to Explore: Topic/ Theme: 1. Gaining and maintaining power. Where is the line between ambition and corruption? 2. Fate versus self-will. Do we control our own destiny? How is this portrayed in the play? 3. Masculinity and cruelty. What does it mean to be a man in Macbeth? 4. Masking true intentions. How are characters duplicitous (twofaced, false), and what are the results? 5. The Role of Women. How are women portrayed in the play? Essay Requirements: Thesis supported by textual evidence Proper citations Embedding of all quotes (properly introduced and striving to embed into context) A conclusion that is thoughtful, thought-provoking, makes a relevant connection outside of the text Beautiful, benchmark worthy formatting Things to Think About: Macbeths rise to power The constant battle for titles and the crown

Role of the witches and the supernatural Power of suggestion Can Macbeth change the prophecies? Men as warriors Is killing seen as manly? Does dying in battle make one a man? When are characters lying? When are characters betraying others, acting two-faced, putting on a show?

Lady Macbeth, Lady Macduff, the witches, motherhood (or lack of)