The Fifteen-Minute Macbeth
Provided by
The Folger Library Shakespeare Education and Festivals Project
Workshop by Janet Field-Pickering at UALR in October 1997
Credited at the workshop to Peggy O’Brien
(with some modifications by R. L. Knutson)
Numbers in parentheses are keyed to lines from Macbeth which are said aloud by the student (or in chorus by groups of students) holding each one.
Narrator:
You know that Macbeth has begun when you hear these words [1] — probably
the most famous first line in any Shakespearean play. Soon after, we
meet King Duncan and the bloody captain, and we hear about Macbeth’s
fierceness in battle. [2]
The witches run into Macbeth himself and Banquo [3], and they predict the future. [4] Banquo has the more permanent prediction. Macbeth is excited about this even so and writes about it to his wife. [5] Lady Macbeth likes this letter— and the idea of being king is so good, why not help it along? They talk; Macbeth has second thoughts. Lady Macbeth says [6]. Macbeth says [7]. The deed is done. Duncan is dead.
Very early the next morning, there is a noise at the gate. [8] It’s Macduff arriving to wake up Duncan. [9] Everyone in the castle learns that Duncan has been murdered. Macbeth says [10]. Banquo says [11]. Lady Macbeth says [12]. Malcolm and Donalbain, Duncan’s sons, say [13]—and they run away to England.
Things go from bad to worse. Macbeth murders Banquo [14]. Then he consults the witches for more information [15]. Then he has the wife and children of Macduff murdered [16].
Meanwhile, Malcolm and Donalbain are in England gathering an army [17]. And things get even worse for the Macbeths [18]. Right about this point, look for an amazing battle in which Macduff says [19] and Macbeth says [20]. And soon after that, look for a brand-new king [21].
Lines for “The Fifteen-Minute Macbeth”