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How does Shakespeare portray the effect Macbeth has on Scotland? Refer to this extract from Act 2 Scene 4 and elsewhere in the play - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
How does Shakespeare portray the effect Macbeth has on Scotland? Refer to this extract from Act 2 Scene 4 and elsewhere in the play. In this extract, Ross and the O... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How does Shakespeare portray the effect Macbeth has on Scotland? Refer to this extract from Act 2 Scene 4 and elsewhere in the play - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
How does Macbeth's actions affect Scotland?
Answer
Shakespeare portrays Macbeth's effects on Scotland through the depiction of a nation in turmoil. The unnatural occurrences, such as the darkness during the day and the disturbance in nature, symbolize the chaos that Macbeth's ambition has unleashed. For instance, following Duncan's murder, Ross describes how the falcon, a regal bird, was killed by an owl, emphasizing the reversal of the natural order, which reflects Macbeth's usurpation.
Furthermore, there are implications of guilt and corruption within the kingdom. The Old Man's lamentation about the state of the land signifies the moral decay instigated by Macbeth's treachery.
Step 2
How does the dialogue between Ross and the Old Man develop this idea?
Answer
The dialogue serves to illustrate the gravity of the situation in Scotland. Ross notes that the 'night has been unruly,' indicating that the natural world is reacting to Macbeth's heinous act. This anthropomorphism of nature reveals that Macbeth's crime does not merely affect individuals but has a broader impact on the entire nation.
The Old Man’s reference to 'these strange, events' further intensifies the sense of uncertainty and dread that pervades the atmosphere, suggesting that peace will not return to Scotland until Macbeth's tyranny is addressed.
Step 3
Referencing other parts of the play, how does this reflect Macbeth’s overall impact?
Answer
Across the play, Macbeth's transformation from a noble warrior to a tyrant exemplifies the decay of Scotland as a whole. His increasing paranoia leads to further violence, such as the murder of Banquo and the attempted assassination of Fleance. Macbeth's reliance on dark forces, symbolized by the witches, showcases how his ambition has severed his ties to morality and rightful kingship.
Ultimately, Scotland suffers under Macbeth's rule, as seen in later acts where lords and thanes become increasingly disillusioned, showcasing the devastating effects of his ruthless quest for power.