How to Analyse a Macbeth Extract
Whether you’re prepping for an exam or diving into Shakespeare for the first time, analysing an extract from Macbeth can feel like stepping into a foggy battlefield—confusing, intense, and full of hidden meaning. But fear not! With the right approach, you can turn that tangle of “thee”s and “thou”s into sharp, insightful analysis. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you break down any extract from Macbeth with confidence.
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STEP 1: READ THE EXTRACT
Before diving into analysis, read the extract more than once—out loud if possible. Look for:
Who’s speaking?
What’s happening in the plot?
What emotions are being expressed?
What has just happened, or what is about to happen?
Understanding the context is crucial. For example, if Macbeth is hallucinating a dagger, is it before or after Duncan's murder? Knowing this shapes how you interpret his mental state.
STEP 2: UNDERSTAND THE SURFACE LEVEL MEANING IN DETAIL
Make sure you understand the exact plot as well as you can. Think of the exact details of what happens, in exactly what order. This is also called the ‘literal meaning’ or sometimes the ‘explicit meaning’ - you can ask yourself “What literally happens in this scene?”
STEP 3: UNDERSTAND THE DEEPER SYMBOLIC MEANING
Every line in Macbeth links back to bigger ideas. Ask yourself:
What does this reveal about Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, or other characters?
How does it connect to themes like ambition, power, guilt, fate vs free will, or the supernatural?
What is the final message or meaning being presented here to the audience? Why?
For example:
Macbeth’s vision of the dagger shows his ambition pulling him forward, but also his fear and guilt foreshadowing the mental breakdown to come.
You may also want to think about Context at this point.
STEP 4: ANALYSE!
Shakespeare’s language is loaded with meaning. Look out for:
Imagery: Vivid descriptions appeal to the senses.
Metaphor and Simile: Comparing one thing to another to reveal deeper meaning.
Symbolism: Objects or actions that stand for something more (e.g., blood = guilt).
Alliteration and Sound Devices: Create mood or draw attention.
Structure and Pacing: Think about short vs long sentences, exclamations, or pauses.
🧪 Try this formula in your essay writing:
Technique + Evidence + Effect + Link to Theme
Example:
Shakespeare uses personification in “Nature seems dead,” making nature feel lifeless and eerie. This reflects Macbeth’s inner turmoil and the disruption of natural order—a key theme in the play.
STEP 5: PLAN + WRITE YOUR ANSWER
How you plan and write depends on your question and exam format, but all essays need at least an intro, three middle paragraphs and a conclusion. Take a look at some example essays from your exam board for more help on this part!
Thanks for reading!
Need more help? Our Complete Macbeth Course includes the following:
A full breakdown of every character
Setting, plot and scene summaries
Analysis of form, structure and language
The best key quotes to use in essays, + explanations of their meaning and use of techniques
Context, themes + attitudes
Lots of student example essays at different levels
Practice questions, extract analysis + more!
Levels covered: KS3, GCSE, iGCSE, A Level, University.
