World Literature I

Macbeth Essay Topics

  1. Guidelines
  • The essay should be typed in a word document in Times New Roman 12 pt. font, double spaced, with the appropriate MLA format and Heading, contain 5 paragraphs and 3 main points, and no less than 3 complete pages minimum (3 – 5 range).
  • The essay should have an original and creative Title: Subtitle.
  • The essay should incorporate quotes from the text in order to justify the claims that you are making – no need for a Works Cited page – I know from where the material is drawn. However, you should give reference to the text – meaning – In Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Banquo states, “…”
  • Be sure to put the title of the play in italics – Macbeth. This is required and will help to distinguish between the title and the main character of the same name.
  • The essay should have minimal grammatical and mechanical issues; after all, this is an English writing course. Be sure to use the rubric and the previous essay for guidance.
  • Use the Checklists for Success for further assistance and direction.
  • This deadline must be strictly adhered to in order for me to get all of them graded in a timely manner.
  1. Topics
  2. Characterize the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. If the main theme is ambition, then whose ambition is the driving force of the play – Macbeth’s, Lady Macbeth’s, or both?
  3. An important theme in Macbeth is the relationship between gender and power, particularly Shakespeare’s exploration of the values that make up the idea of masculinity. What are these values, and how do various characters embody them?  How does Shakespeare subvert his character’s perception of gender roles?
  4. Compare and Contrast Macbeth, Macduff, and Banquo. How are they alike?  How are they different?  Is it possible to argue that Macbeth is the play’s villain and Macduff or Banquo its hero, or is the matter more complicated than that?
  5. Discus the role that blood plays in Macbeth, particularly immediately following Duncan’s murder and late in the play. What does it symbolize for Macbeth and his wife?
  6. Discuss Macbeth’s visions and hallucinations. What role do they play in the development of his character?