Act I, Scene i
Setting: The only information given about the setting is that it takes place during a lightning storm.
Background: Elizabethan views on witches
Characterization: The three characters in the scene are three witches, the Weird Sisters. Their lines give off a sense of mystery, evil, and malice. The lines express how the sisters are not to be viewed as heroes of the story.
Act II, Scene ii
Setting: The bed chamber of MacBeth and Lady MacBeth. After MacBeth killed Duncan.
Background: Role of women in Elizabethan Theatre, role of women in Elizabethan life
Characterization: MacBeth is clearly in a state of shock and horror at the fact that he had just killed Duncan which is the beginning of his loss of mental stability. Angry that her husband could not leave the daggers with Duncan's servants, Lady MacBeth shows that her priorities are set not on her husband's sanity, but whether or not he successfully gains power. She focuses on making MacBeth and herself look like they have done no wrong and ignores the fact that MacBeth clearly is not himself.
Act III, Scene iv
Setting: Banquet table, after Banquo's murder
Background: Scottish Class Structure, Structure of the Scottish Succession, Role of Women in Elizabethan Theatre, role of Women in Elizabethan Life
Characterization: MacBeth is clearly not the same person that he was in the beginning the play. This is clear when he sees Banquo's ghost. His sanity is not entirely intact
Act IV, Scene ii
Setting: MacDuff's home
Background: Biblical passages, role of women in Elizabethan theatre
Characterization: Lady MacDuff believes that MacDuff is a cowardly traitor. Her son is shown to be optimistic. Ross is shown to be an understanding man.
Act V, Scene iv
Setting: Birnam
Background: Scottish military strategy
Characterization: Malcom is shown to be intelligent when he realizes that uses the wood of Birnam would be a wise tactic for attacking Dunsinane.
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