Macbeth-Context

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  • Macbeth-Context
    • King James I (King James VI of Scotland)
      • Play appeals to his interest in the supernatural
        • very superstitious
        • wrote a book on the subject: "Daemonologie"
        • known to be involved in witch trials
      • Banquo= mythical figure Stuart kings claim to be descended from
        • Presented as wise, noble + regal
      • 1603 = King of England and Scotland
        • Queen Elizabeth had no heir
      • Gunpowder plot by a group of Catholics- 1605
        • Attempt to blow up James + Parliament - did not support Catholics
        • Conspirator = Father Garnet - notorious for telling half truths during trials (like the Witches)
    • Queen Elizabeth I
      • Influenced strong female characters
        • challenged stereotypes at the time
        • Lady Macbeth
      • the 'virgin' queen - no natural successor
        • caused political instability in England
        • James named as successor on her death bed
      • Supported and enjoyed Shakespeare's work
    • Witchcraft
      • Hated and feared
        • Blamed for most bad things in this period e.g. disease, war, failed crops
        • Women seen as morally weaker or temptresses in Bible - Eve
        • Hundreds exacuted after being accused of the crime
      • "Daemonologie" - King James I's book - described witches powers - three witches had many of these
        • Predicted the future
        • cursed their enemies
        • affected the weather - (pathetic fallacy)
        • defied normal laws
        • had familliars
    • Kingship and Loyalty
      • Constant fear of invasion throughout Shakespeare's life
        • Treason by 1st Thane of Cawdor - assisted invading troops
      • King belived to be Gods representative on earth in Shakespeare's England
        • regicide = ultimate crime and against Gods will
          • Unnatural results
      • Divine Chain of Being
        • God - King - nobles - freemen - peasants

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