Student Workshops
Book a Bespoke Student Workshop on Macbeth. In our workshops students will work as actors and directors on the play. Our workshops explore characters, scenes and themes using practical techniques from the RSC rehearsal room. All workshops are led by an RSC Associate Learning Practitioner – an actor, director or creative with experience of the RSC’s rehearsal room. Workshops last two hours and can be tailored to any class.
Find out more
Macbeth follows the story of a Scottish nobleman who is told by witches that he will become king one day. Inspired and driven by their prophecy, he goes on to kill the king and take the throne.
When Macbeth was written, King James I was on the throne of England and his fascination with witchcraft and magic can be seen throughout the play. There are lots of themes you can choose to explore in Macbeth, including:
- Ambition
- Kingship
- Fate and free will
- Grief and despair
- Loyalty and deception
- Rebellion
- Duty and honour
You can discover more about these themes and where they appear in the text in our Themes Resource.
DOWNLOAD FREE RESOURCES
Access Teacher Packs, a Macbeth synopsis and activities by downloading these PDFs:
Live Lesson: 2023
Watch our Live Lesson on Macbeth from 2023 on demand. Featuring actors from the production this 40 minute Lesson explores the relationship between Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, looking at two key scenes from the play.
Watch On Demand
SIGNING SHAKESPEARE FOR DEAF STUDENTS
This programme was created by the University of Birmingham and the RSC to support deaf young people in their study and enjoyment of Shakespeare. There is a scheme of work for the study of Macbeth, supported by resources including a series of films created by deaf actors and directors.
Shakespeare Learning Zone
Students will find many resources on Macbeth in our Shakespeare Learning Zone, including scene by scene analysis, activities on character relationships, in depth scene studies and PEE grids. These resources are also perfect to be used by teachers in the classroom.
