Abstract
In this report we will discuss certain key aspects of the theatre representation of “Macbeth” which is considered to be one of the most acclaimed tragedies of all times (Macbeth: Critical Essays | Macbeth on the Stage | CliffsNotes).
Thesis Statement: This paper includes two major features of drama, namely the portrayal of ‘tone’ and the depiction of visual imagery pertaining to a particular scene. We have taken the reference of Act 1 Scene 5 from the play “Macbeth” in order to discuss the aforementioned key aspects of drama.
In the world of theatre, the physical presence of an actor plays a vital role in its success or failure. Macbeth is no different. This particular scene, Act 1 Scene 5, has such influential imagery and finesse that it never ceases to amaze the audience. The vicious cruelty of Lady Macbeth is shown to the audience when it’s at its best (Macbeth Act 1 Scene 5 - the milk of human kindness). Lady Macbeth’s poise is calm but one cannot fail to hear the chill in her tone which is governed by an intense hunger to attain power. She is composed as she speaks out her mind but one can see that her mind is restless from the quiver in her voice. Her urge to attain the crown makes her so vulnerable that the usually calm wife now turns to a vicious devil and her tone of voice and body language heighten that expression.
Setting Interpretation:
The stage interpretation of a particular scene is also a crucial factor as it reflects the intensity of the moment. Act 1 Scene 5 takes place inside Macbeth’s bedroom in Inverness (Macbeth Act I: Setting). The décor of the room and the time of the day when the scene takes place compliment the feeling which Lady Macbeth has at the moment she enters the room. The brightness of the day and the gaiety of the room are all mellowed down by her silent fury. The objects around her do little to distract her cunning mind from forming her cruel plots. This scene is supposed to be a mundane one and the stage decoration complements the scene to a great extent.
References:
1)Unknown. "Macbeth: Critical Essays | Macbeth on the Stage | CliffsNotes." Cliffsnotes.com, 2014. Web. 21 Jan 2014. <http://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/m/macbeth/critical-essays/macbeth-on-the-stage>.
2)Unknown. "Macbeth Act 1 Scene 5 - the milk of human kindness." Shakespeare-online.com, 2014. Web. 21 Jan 2014. <http://www.shakespeare-online.com/plays/macbeth_1_5.html>.
3) Unknown. "Macbeth Act I : Setting." ~HenryZ's Blog~, 2010. Web. 21 Jan 2014. <http://henryzhouu.wordpress.com/macbeth-act-i-setting/>.
