Dramatic tension in MacbethShakespeare's play "Macbeth" takes place in Scotland during the reign of King Duncan. Macbeth rose through the ranks of the army to become one of Duncan's most trusted lords. An encounter with three witches places wickedness in the heart of an otherwise noble and loyal Macbeth. Shakespeare's brilliant use of dramatic irony, the supernatural, and indecision produces dramatic tension that keeps the audience in suspense throughout the play. In Act 1, Scene 1, a scene of three witches confronts us. This alone would have created mystery and fright in the audience, setting the scene for the play to come. “Macbeth” was written at a time when there was great interest in witchcraft and the supernatural. People were confused and frightened by the supernatural, so the sight of three witches would have told the audience that the room would be full of evil and lies. This scene is a short introduction to the play. It's long enough to arouse curiosity, but not to satisfy it. The mood of the play is set, although the action and introduction of the main characters do not begin until the next scene. In Act 1, Scene 2, we learn of the hard battle that Macbeth and Banquo fought and win for the victory of Scotland. Duncun rewards Macbeth for his courage by giving him the title “thane of Cawdor”, “…with his ancient title salute Macbeth.” Let us not forget that a “most disloyal traitor” first possessed this title. considered a brave and valiant man because he killed so many people and won the battle almost single-handedly. The language used is quite gruesome and the death of Macbeth's victims is explained in all its gory detail. The...... middle of paper ......gers. She then prepares them for Macbeth. She would have murdered Duncan herself if he hadn't looked like her father. Macbeth returns after murdering Duncan. Shakespeare's use of language and structure manages to build tension up to the murder of King Duncan. He manages to build it up gradually, then relax it a little, then increase it until finally the act of regicide takes place. His use of dramatic irony, the supernatural, and indecision combine to keep the audience in suspense throughout these scenes. His use of the right language in the right places helps the characters and the play become truly believable. Throughout the play, the supernatural plays a major role. A wise choice on Shakespeare's part at the time and one that still works today. Works Cited: Shakespeare, William. Macbeth. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1977.