How does Shakespeare present kingship in Macbeth?

Kings in the time of Shakespeare (1600s) were considered God's representatives on earth, divinely appointed to carry out God's law. It is linked to the idea of the "Divine Right of Kings". In "Macbeth", one of the ways Shakespeare explores the idea of kingship through Macbeth's actions. Macbeth unlawfully seizes the throne by murdering Duncan. He demonstrates the traits that go against the divine right and God, as he takes counsel from the three witches. In this way, kingship in "Macbeth" is shown as something that is divinely appointed by contrasting the way Macbeth takes over the throne and the other kingly figures in the play such as Duncan and Macduff.

SC
Answered by Sharon C. English Literature tutor

72937 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Read the following extract from [a text the pupil has studied] and then answer the following question. E.g. How does Brontë present Jane as a strong female character? (write about the extract and the novel as a whole)


How can I successfully structure an English Literature essay?


How do I structure a comparative essay?


Compare the presentation of Macbeth to Lady Macbeth


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning