Macbeth Context Worksheet

Get ready to explore the historical context of Macbeth!

Key Terms

• Jacobean era
• Divine Right of Kings
• Catholic vs. Protestant conflict
• Witchcraft paranoia/witch-hunts

Short Questions

1. What was the political climate like during the Jacobean era?
2. What role did the Divine Right of Kings play during this time period?
3. How were Catholics and Protestants in England at odds?
4. What was the significance of King James I's obsession with witchcraft?

Berwick Witch Trials

Research the Berwick Witch Trials and answer the following questions:

1. When did the Berwick Witch Trials take place?
2. What were the accusations against the accused witches?
3. What was the outcome of the trials?
4. How might the Berwick Witch Trials have influenced the portrayal of witches in Macbeth?

The Gunpowder Plot

Research the Gunpowder Plot and answer the following questions:

1. When did the Gunpowder Plot occur?
2. Who was involved in the plot?
3. What was the goal of the plot?
4. How might the Gunpowder Plot have influenced the themes of treason and betrayal in Macbeth?

Research Task

Now it's your turn to do some research! Choose one of the following topics and prepare a short presentation on it:

1. The role of women in the Jacobean era
2. The significance of blood imagery in Macbeth
3. The impact of supernatural beliefs on society during the 17th century
4. The life and reign of King James I