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To what extent does Shakespeare present the supernatural as responsible for Macbeth's fate? Explore at least two moments from the play to support your ideas. - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 9 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 9
To what extent does Shakespeare present the supernatural as responsible for Macbeth's fate? Explore at least two moments from the play to support your ideas.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent does Shakespeare present the supernatural as responsible for Macbeth's fate? Explore at least two moments from the play to support your ideas. - OCR - GCSE English Literature - Question 9 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explore the Role of the Witches
Answer
Shakespeare introduces the three witches at the beginning of the play, setting the tone for the supernatural's influence on Macbeth. Their famous line, 'Fair is foul, and foul is fair' (Act 1, Scene 1) encapsulates the theme of appearance versus reality. When they prophesy that Macbeth will become king, this moment serves as a catalyst for his ambition, highlighting how supernatural elements manipulate his fate. The witches not only foretell events but also plant the seeds of ambition in Macbeth, leading him to murder King Duncan. This moment raises questions about free will versus fate, as it suggests that Macbeth's actions are heavily influenced by the witches' prophecies.
Step 2
Examine the Ghost of Banquo
Answer
In Act 3, Scene 4, Macbeth's encounter with Banquo's ghost further emphasizes the supernatural's grip on his psyche. During the banquet scene, Macbeth sees the ghost sitting in his place and reacts with horror, indicating his guilt and paranoia. The appearance of Banquo's ghost symbolizes Macbeth's troubled conscience and foreshadows his downfall. This supernatural manifestation serves to illustrate the psychological torment that arises from his heinous actions, suggesting that the supernatural is not merely external but intertwined with Macbeth’s internal struggle. The relentless haunting drives Macbeth further into a corner, aligning him with the inevitability of his fate crafted by his earlier choices.