Macbeth 5.1 Word Nerd: Watch

The transcript explores the historical and modern meanings of the words 'watch' and 'wake'. In Shakespeare's era, both words meant to be awake, but 'watch' often implied staying awake for a purpose, like tending to the sick. The text references Lady Macbeth's actions as 'watching', meaning she behaves as if awake. In contemporary times, 'watch' has evolved to mean focusing attention on something specific, such as watching a play.

In Shakespeare's time, what did the word 'watch' often imply?

• To dream

• To be asleep

• To stay awake for a specific purpose

• To read a book

What was a common reason for 'watching' in Shakespeare's time?

• To cook a meal

• To guard over someone

• To play a game

• To write a letter

What does the doctor mean when he says Lady Macbeth does the effects of 'watching'?

• She is actually asleep

• She is acting as if she were awake

• She is reading a book

• She is pretending to be awake

How has the meaning of 'watch' changed in modern times?

• It only means to be asleep

• It means to be confused

• It means to focus attention on something specific

• It means to ignore something

Which of the following is an example of the modern use of 'watch'?

• To watch a play

• To watch a dream

• To watch a book

• To watch a sleep