Unnatural events in Macbeth_Act 2 scene 4_the old man_audience trust

The lesson explore the use of disrupted nature to symbolise an unnatural change to the natural order. This links with the chain of being, a belief that Kings were God’s chosen ones on earth, and usurping their crown through regicide would be reflected in the natural world to show God’s displeasure. The scene is analysed and the character of the od man is discussed in terms of his reliability to the audience. Two questions are posed at the end to allow for variety , as well as a writing structure to help student’s of varying abilities respond.