Shakespeare and History: Exploring Macbeth

Join us for this two-day course and explore both the literary and historical aspects of Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’.

On the first day your course teacher will introduce the play, as well as various aspects of the historical context. You will learn what is known about the ‘real’ Macbeth, who was King of Scotland during the eleventh century, and how his reputation developed over time. You will also learn about Shakespeare’s own historical setting, in early modern England, and how he adapted his sources. After time for questions and discussion, we will watch a film version of Macbeth (2015), directed by Justin Kurzel.

The second day will feature interactive activities, based around reading and discussion of key passages from the play. You will be encouraged to share your own interpretations,  informed by further conversation about the history that lies behind Macbeth. There will be particular focus on the related themes of power and gender, the role of Shakespeare’s notorious Witches and why Shakespeare’s plays remain so compelling today.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Discuss what is known about the ‘real’ Macbeth, and how his reputation developed over time
• Assess the historical context in which Shakespeare was writing, and how this might have affected his approach and literary choices
• Apply the knowledge above to specific passages from the play

his course is suitable for anyone interested in exploring Shakespeare in context. No specialist knowledge of history or literature is required.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support.

There are no specific entry requirements for this course.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course is due to start, unless the course is full or cancelled.