June 16

ELA B10: Consequences of Macbeth’s actions…

  1. Yesterday we discussed the basic plot summary of the play and the significance of external forces influencing or even intentionally manipulating Macbeth to act. He is guilty for the murder of several characters in the play, but to what degree is the question we are considering. After a certain point, when Macbeth has already made so many dire mistakes, it doesn’t even seem to matter when he just continues and digs himself deeper and deeper. We can imagine that’s how criminals feel at times – after a certain point when you have no hope anyway, what’s the point of caring about the consequences?
  2. Yesterday’s cartoon summary of the play helped lay the foundation for students so that when we discuss the characters and watch the modern version of the play they’ll have some prior knowledge to put things into context. The version of the play we are watching is a BBC creation titled Macbeth Retold. It is set in a restaurant in the city and the goal is not to gain the crown and become King of Scotland, but instead to gain control of the restaurant.
  3. Students were divided into two groups, those watching for evidence to prosecute Macbeth for the murders and those looking for evidence to defend him. We also discussed the difference between criteria that established first degree murder (premeditated and intentional), second degree (intentional but not planned in advance), and manslaughter (guilty of murder but with no intention). Students are asked to take notes as they watch to prepare for their upcoming debate.
  4. Before starting the movie, though, we watched the opening scene of a very popular and true version of the play, the Roman Polanski version from 1971. The scene contains the witches and starts things off with a very ominous tone. See what you think?
  5. Then we began watching the Macbeth Retold version staring James Macavoy. It makes things quite clear and carefully shows the scheming nature of Macbeth’s wife. Michael is so annoyed with her influence that he mentioned more than once he wanted to find her and “fix” her. lol


Posted June 16, 2009 by Waldner in category ELA 10

1 thoughts on “ELA B10: Consequences of Macbeth’s actions…

  1. Solid Dr.

    the choices that Macbeth chose were all justified. He deserved his death there was no way in _____ that he didnt. Mcbeth was a good story and movie and perfect examples in making choices.

    Reply

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