Macbeth And Tragedy

Worksheet Description

This worksheet delves into the concept of catharsis within the context of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” encouraging students to analyze the emotional journey not only of the characters but also of the audience. It begins by asking what genre “Macbeth” falls under, setting the stage for an exploration of tragic elements. Students are prompted to summarize the plot, which is essential for understanding the trajectory of catharsis throughout the play.

Following the plot summary, the worksheet asks whether Macbeth becomes aware of his own tragedy, a critical question that addresses the self-realization aspect of cathartic experience. It continues by querying students on the audience’s emotional state by the end of the play, allowing them to consider the collective emotional release that tragedy aims to evoke. The penultimate question asks for a definition of catharsis, ensuring students can articulate the concept clearly. Lastly, it encourages personal engagement with the text by asking students if they experienced catharsis upon completing “Macbeth.” This final question bridges the gap between academic study and personal emotional response, highlighting the enduring relevance of classical literary analysis in understanding human emotions.