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Starting with this speech, explore how Shakespeare presents Macbeth’s fears - AQA - GCSE English Literature - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 1
Starting with this speech, explore how Shakespeare presents Macbeth’s fears. Write about: - how Shakespeare presents Macbeth’s fears in this speech - how Shakespea... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Starting with this speech, explore how Shakespeare presents Macbeth’s fears - AQA - GCSE English Literature - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
how Shakespeare presents Macbeth’s fears in this speech
Answer
In this speech, Macbeth reveals his deep-seated fears and insecurities, particularly concerning Banquo. He acknowledges that Banquo's wisdom and valor pose a threat to him. The idea that "our fears in Banquo / Stick deep" indicates that Macbeth feels a relentless anxiety about Banquo's potential to disrupt his newfound power. Macbeth's respect for Banquo's character also highlights his own moral decline—he admires qualities in Banquo that he has abandoned.
Moreover, Macbeth recalls the witches' prophecies, particularly how they hailed Banquo's lineage as destined to be kings. This knowledge intensifies his fear that he has acted ruthlessly to gain the throne, only to see his efforts thwarted by Banquo's descendants. The imagery of the 'fruits' of his ambition underscores his desperation; he feels his actions in murdering Duncan may lead nowhere if Banquo’s heirs take over.
Throughout the speech, the emotional weight of Macbeth's fears is exemplified by his internal conflict. He sees himself as a slave to his fears, revealing a psychological battle between ambition and the ethical repercussions of his choices.
Step 2
how Shakespeare presents Macbeth’s fears in the play as a whole
Answer
Shakespeare expertly weaves Macbeth's fears throughout the play, showcasing them as a driving force behind his actions and decisions. Initially, Macbeth's fear of the consequences of killing King Duncan drives him into a state of paranoia and moral conflict. This fear evolves into a broader anxiety that manifests in various forms, such as fear of losing power, fear of Banquo, and fear of the supernatural.
As the play progresses, Macbeth's fears lead to increasing brutality and irrationality. He is haunted by the witches' prophecies, which propel him into a cycle of violence, as each fear drives him to eliminate perceived threats. His descent into tyranny is marked by an acute fear of being overthrown, showcased in his decision to murder Banquo and attempt to kill his son, Fleance.
Furthermore, Lady Macbeth's initial ruthlessness and subsequent descent into madness underscore Macbeth's fears. The contrast between the moral courage they both exhibited at the outset versus the paralysis of fear they succumb to later illustrates the destructive nature of their ambition. The recurring theme of fear culminates in the chaos and despair in the final acts, where Macbeth becomes increasingly isolated, ultimately facing the consequences of his actions. This trajectory emphasizes how fear can corrupt and destroy even the most ambitious individuals.