Relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth Essay Plan

Question 1

Point 1 + quotations for the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth:

Answer 1

Start of play Macbeth appears dependent on Lady Macbeth.

• “thou shalt be what thou art promised”
• “too full o’th milk of human kindness”
• “pour thine spirits” in his “ear”

Question 2

Point 2 + quotations for the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth:

Answer 2

Lady Macbeth is shown as holding a lot of persuasive power over Macbeth as she endeavours to persuade Macbeth to commit Duncan’s murder after he decides that “if chance” will “crown” him king then it may crown him without his stir.

• “when you durst do it then you were a man”
• “smiling”,, “dash’d the brains out has I sworn to”

Question 3

Point 3 + quotations for the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth:

Answer 3

Whilst their relationship is not free from problems the two of them are also presented as making a good team – particularly when they murder Duncan.

• “wash” his ”hands” and “put on” his “night gown”
• “a foolish thought to say to a sorry sight”

Question 4

Point 4 + quotations for the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth:

Answer 4

Macbeth becomes increasingly more independent and appears to no longer need her guidance or reassurance.

• “be innocent of the knowledge”
• “My Lord” or “King”
• “my dearest chick”

Question 5

Point 5 + quotations for the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth:

Answer 5

Fractured relationship during banquet scene

• “are you a man?”
• “I am in blood / Stepped in so far, that, should I wade no more, / Returning were as tedious as go o’er”

Question 6

Point 6 + quotations for the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth:

Answer 6

Still has a deep sense of love for Lady Macbeth despite their fractured relationship which is shown through his mourning of Lady Macbeth once he finds out of her death.

• “She should have died hereafter;”
• “Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player … Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury / Signifying nothing.”