The Real and the Fiction
Oftentimes in the past, changes to history were inevitable to create theatrical masterpieces and true works of art, these alterations are even apparent in today’s society when the film industry, pieces of literature, and novels are examined. During the writing process for the dramatic tragedy entitled Macbeth, first performed in 1611, William Shakespeare’s main sources of information were Holinshed’s Chronicles (Macbeth)… From there many adjustments were made to the story’s plot and the characters/ line of approach: dramatic purpose (exciting story); create more complex characterization of Macbeth; political purpose catering to the reigning monarch’s beliefs
In the Scottish Play, Banquo’s character is drastically changed
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At the time of the writing of this Macbeth, it was believed that King James was a direct descendant to Banquo, this could have influenced Shakespeare during the conceptualization of Banquo as an innocent rather than an accessory to murder keeping in mind James’ link to the character.
The changes made to characters in the play extend even to minor characters such as the three wicked witches. In Holinshed’s depiction of the sisters they were regarded as “creatures of the elderwood…nymphs or fairies”. In Greek and Latin mythology nymphs were depicted as minor female goddesses who were very youthful and beautiful, and in European folklore fairies were mythical beings who took a small and delicate form. In the play the sisters fall far from both