Context

• Previously known as King James VI of Scotland, he had recently ascended to the English throne – and Shakespeare sought to impress him by addressing his interests, such as kingship and witchcraft. King James had a deep interest in the supernatural and had also recently survived the Gunpowder Plot to kill him. He was therefore anxious about threats to his power from witchcraft and other potential assassins. The play also complimented the king’s ancestry (Banquo, a noble character, was named after one of James’ ancestors).
• The Great Chain of Being. In Jacobean times, people believed that all life was part of a strict hierarchy, with God at the top. Kings were thought to have been appointed by ‘divine right’ (selected by God) and therefore higher than the rest of mankind. To challenge one’s position – and to challenge the King – was an affront to God and would create great chaos.
• The Gunpowder Plot. In 1605, a group of rebels, including Guy Fawkes, attempted regicide by plotting to blow up Parliament. Shakespeare shows how those who commit regicide will be tormented by guilt and ultimately meet a tragic end.