Macbeth Essay – Introduction Framework (BROT)
Question:
Starting with this extract, write about how Shakespeare presents witchcraft and the supernatural.
B – Background
Give a short introduction about the play and its context.
Sentence Starter:
“Shakespeare’s tragedy Macbeth was written in the early ________ century for King ________
___, who was very interested in ____________ and the ______________.”
“Set in ____________, the play explores how __________ and evil forces can ___________
even good people.”
R – Rephrase the Question
Restate the essay question in your own words.
Sentence Starter:
“In the play, Shakespeare presents witchcraft and the supernatural as
_______________________________ that ___________________________.”
O – Opinion
Give your opinion on why Shakespeare includes witchcraft and what message he wanted to send.
Sentence Starter:
“He does this to show that _____________________________________________.”
or
“This helps the audience understand that ________________________________.”
T – Thesis (Main Ideas)
Say what your essay will focus on — both in the extract and in the whole play.
Sentence Starter:
“In this extract, Macbeth’s reaction shows ________________________________, while
throughout the play, Shakespeare presents the supernatural as ____________________________
and ____________________________.”
Checklist Before Writing
Mention Shakespeare, King James I, and witchcraft
Use ambitious vocabulary (e.g. corrupting, tempting, unnatural, evil influence)
End with your main argument (what you’ll prove in your essay)
