Written by Shakespeare, Macbeth is one of the plays that is required reading of many a literature curriculum. Yet even though so many people have read this work, there are some interesting facts about Macbeth that aren’t known.
1. Witches For a King
Macbeth is actually named for a real King of Scotland. Yet the witches that are in the play are more of a homage to King James, who was ruling at the time. King James had an affinity for witches that was well known, even to the point of writing a book on witchcraft. Many believe this affinity was bred from paranoia as King James felt that witches had tried to kill him.
2. It’s a Warning
The bloody ending of Macbeth is supposed to serve as a warning to all those who would dare defy the king. A group of Catholics were plotting to bomb the House of Lords with King James inside because Catholicism remained outlawed in the nation. The plan was foiled and those involved eventually murdered themselves. The play was meant to turn away anyone else thinking similar thoughts.
3. Short and Sweet
In total, Shakespeare wrote 10 tragedies. Macbeth tends to be the one that receives the most performances simply because it is the shortest. Interestingly enough, the play is actually longer today than when it was originally performed. That’s because the apparitions in the play were added back in during the 19th century after being removed initially as to not draw offense.
4. A Crazy Superstition
There are many in the performing arts who refuse to say the name Macbeth. It’s said that the name is cursed unless mentioned within the context of the play. A number of accidents have happened during performances over the years, including the Globe Theater burning down and actors dying tragically the day or night before their performance.
5. 7 Years Posthumous
There were never any authorized publications of Macbeth during Shakespeare’s lifetime. There were, however, at least 18 unauthorized copies that were printed thanks to the lack of artistic copyright laws. It wasn’t until 1623, a full 7 years after his death, that any official works were recorded and published. Macbeth was part of this first initial publication, contained in the First Folio.
Shakespeare is often considered to be one of the world’s greatest every playwrights. His works are well loved, including Macbeth, and will likely be performed for centuries to come.
