Thursday, May 29, 2014

How is Macbeth gothic in Act 1?

Although gothic literature was not established as a major
literary genre until the 1800s, strong gothic elements can be identified in
Macbeth, even in the first act. The primary elements that create a
gothic tone in the drama are mystery, blood, death, and the presence of the
supernatural. These are introduced in Act I and are incorporated throughout the
remainder of the play. Act I makes it clear that Macbeth will be
dark indeed.


The immediate appearance of the witches brings
mystery and supernatural beings into the play. They are indeed the "weird" sisters,
clearly malevolent in nature. Their powers are mysterious, yet to be fully defined, but
powerful they are and quite frightening. Also, the detailed description of Macbeth in
battle creates vivid images of bloody death. Blood will become a major motif in the
drama, and Macbeth's life from this point on will be bound up with death. In the very
beginning of the play, the gothic tone of Macbeth is clearly
established.

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