Macbeth - The Plot

Complete Handout 8 - Pre-Textual Activity

This is a brief outline of the most important events in Macbeth

Watch the following video summary of Macbeth
http://www.sparknotes.com/sparknotes/video/macbeth

This shows the plot of Macbeth in each of the 5 Acts

Finally this breaks down the plot further
Act 1: The Exposition
- The play takes place in Scotland.
- A war is ending. The Scottish general, Macbeth, and his faithful friend, Banquo, have emerged victorious. However, three witches have brewed an evil plot against Macbeth and when they meet him, they tell him he will be King.
Act 2: The Rising Action
- Macbeth and his wife kill the King and take the throne. They go on a killing spree. The action rises as the audience see how ambitious Macbeth and Lady Macbeth have become.
Act 3: The Climax
- Macbeth holds a banquet and sees the ghost of Banquo (who Macbeth killed.) Lady Macbeth becomes mentally unstable, and the couple begins to fear the consequences of their actions.
Act 4: Falling Action
- A rebellion is led by Macduff to give the throne to Duncan's son. Macbeth learns more prophecies from the witches and thinks he will be saved.
Act 5: Resolution
- The three witches' predictions come true. Macbeth is killed.

Complete Handout- Macbeth Plot Summary Jigsaw Activity