Macbeth Historical Background By: Morgan, Emma, Jess, Tamara, Marc, Jordan, Brook, Lauren

History

Macbeth was written between 1605 and 1606 by William Shakespeare Macbeth was a real Scottish king of the sixteenth century Macbeth is a dark and cynical play

William Shakespare got his idea for Macbeth from Raphael Honlinshed’s Chronicles of England Various parts were take from many other historical events

Macbeth’s Scotland

The play takes place in Scotland just after a long period of English rule. Scottish history is woven throughout the play.

Duncan’s Reign

Several years into Duncan’s reign Macbeth raised an army and openly opposed the Monarch. Duncan was killed in the battle . Malcolm was Duncan's oldest son. Malcolm was responsible for Macbeth’s death when the two armies met at the battle of Lumphanan.

Witchcraft

Witchcraft was the practice of the devil Scottish, English, believed in witchcraft, it was a threat to society Witches were burned to death Most people believed witches were only females

The Gowrie Conspiracy

The Earl of Gowrie and his oldest brother attempted to kill the king Public was well aware of this crime May have had an impact on Shakespeare’s play

The gun powder plot

The gun powder plot took place in 1605 The Catholics plotted to kill King James, the royal family and multiple government officials Henry Garnet was the Catholic that planned it Henry was accompanied by Robert Catesby The plot was not a success Being Catholic was considered a crime in this time period