Macbeth Act all the way up to Act 5
Choose one of the prompts below and write a two-page, double-spaced, thesis-driven essay. The essay must have an introduction that includes a strong thesis statement, two body paragraphs that support the thesis, and a conclusion.
- What is Macbeth’s tragic mistake in the second act?
- Ambition is not a tragic mistake because it is a thought or desire. It is not a specific action. Look for a specific action that Macbeth performs that results in the play’s tragic events.
- How does Macbeth elicit pity and fear in the audience?
- How does Macbeth warn monarchs about the dangers of tyranny?
- In what ways can Lady Macbeth be compared to Grendel’s mother?
Sample Answer
What is Macbeth’s tragic mistake in the second act?
Macbeth’s tragic mistake in the second act is murdering King Duncan. He is motivated by ambition and his wife’s encouragement, but he knows that it is wrong. After the murder, he is guilt-ridden and paranoid. This mistake leads to a chain of events that result in his own downfall.
How does Macbeth elicit pity and fear in the audience?