Macbeth — AO overview (superseded)

AO1 — Response + references (what you say)

• Answer the question with a clear line of argument (thesis).
• Build 3–5 main points that stay focused on the question.
• Use short, embedded quotations (don’t drop huge chunks).
• For the extract question style (if applicable):
  • Extract: what’s happening + what it shows about the theme/character.
  • Elsewhere: link to 2–3 other moments across the play.

High-scoring AO1 looks like: a clear argument, a logical paragraph order, and quotes selected because they prove the point.

AO2 — Writer’s methods (how Shakespeare creates meaning)

Pick a quote, then zoom in:

• Word/phrase → what it suggests
• Method (imagery, metaphor, contrast, repetition, semantic field)
• Effect on audience
• Link back to the question

Macbeth-specific methods to notice:

• Soliloquies (private thoughts vs public performance)
• Dramatic irony
• Structure: turning points (Duncan’s murder; Banquo; the banquet; Act 5 collapse)
• Staging: entrances/exits, offstage violence, the supernatural

AO3 — Context (only when it helps your argument)

Use context to support AO1/AO2, not replace them.

High-yield context links:

• Kingship + divine right (legitimate rule vs tyranny)
• Jacobean beliefs about witchcraft and the supernatural
• Gender expectations and ideas of masculinity/honour
• James I / the political atmosphere of the period

Rule of thumb: if the context point doesn’t connect to a quote/method/idea you’ve already discussed, don’t include it.

AO4 — Technical accuracy (how you write it)

Checklist:

• Topic sentence that answers the question
• Embedded quotes + correct punctuation
• Clear analytical verbs: suggests, implies, symbolises, exposes, reinforces
• Don’t waffle: keep sentences clean and purposeful

Useful sentence stems:

• “Shakespeare presents ___ to suggest ___.”
• “The verb/adjective ‘___’ implies ___, which links to ___.”
• “Structurally, this moment marks ___, so the audience ___.”