Exploring the Tragic Hero in Macbeth

The video explores the character of Macbeth as a tragic hero in Shakespeare's play. It discusses Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero and Macbeth's initial renown. The video examines Macbeth's ambition, his interactions with the witches, and his subsequent downfall into tyranny and evil. It highlights how Shakespeare evokes sympathy for Macbeth by not showing certain murders on stage and portraying him as brave. The video concludes by inviting viewers to explore further analyses in future videos.

According to Aristotle, what is a key characteristic of a tragic hero?

• They never make any mistakes.

• They are always evil from the start.

• They are highly renowned and suffer a reversal of fortune.

• They always achieve their goals.

How is Macbeth initially described by the sergeant in Act 1, Scene 2?

• As a deceitful and cunning man.

• As a wise and peaceful leader.

• As a brave warrior who killed McDonald.

• As a coward who avoids battle.

What is Macbeth's reaction to the witches' prophecy compared to Banquo's?

• Both dismiss the prophecy as nonsense.

• Macbeth is startled and ambitious, while Banquo is skeptical and wary.

• Both are equally excited and ambitious.

• Macbeth is skeptical, while Banquo is eager.

What does Macbeth admit in his soliloquy in Act 1, Scene 7?

• He is afraid of the witches.

• His ambition is driving him to consider killing King Duncan.

• He wants to flee the country.

• He has no ambition to be king.

How does Lennox describe the country under Macbeth's rule in Act 3, Scene 6?

• As a prosperous and peaceful land.

• As suffering under a hand accursed.

• As a place of great joy and celebration.

• As a land of opportunity and growth.

What is Macbeth called by Malcolm in Act 4, Scene 3?

• A noble hero.

• A wise king.

• A tyrant and devilish.

• A loyal friend.

Why does Shakespeare choose to have key murders take place off-stage?

• To avoid showing any violence.

• To save time in the play.

• To maintain some sympathy for Macbeth.

• Because the actors were not skilled enough.

What does Hecate say about Macbeth in Act 3, Scene 5?

• He is a coward and a fool.

• He is a noble and just ruler.

• He is a wayward son, spiteful and wrathful.

• He is a true son of evil.

How does Macbeth react when he learns that Macduff was born by caesarean?

• He flees the battlefield.

• He surrenders immediately.

• He refuses to yield and fights bravely.

• He begs for mercy.

What is the ultimate lesson that the audience learns from Macbeth's downfall?

• The value of avoiding conflict.

• The importance of trusting witches.

• The benefits of being ruthless.

• The dangers of being over-ambitious.