My 10 year old had to do some Macbeth homework this evening. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to help because I had to go to our annual work function at the studio where I teach. At one point I was asked to demonstrate the part of a “diaphragm” in a visual display and then because I kicked up a bit of a fuss about not wanting to play the part of a diaphragm because it brought back memories of when I had to be a sea urchin in the school play, she gave me the role of being a ribcage instead – which believe me is not an easy part to play. FFS. No better. At all.
Anyway, whilst I was out he had to compose a letter to Lady Macbeth. There are two letters by my computer – one written by him and one typed and printed in old fashioned writing. Given the difference between the two, I suspect my daughter had some influence in the latter.
His handwritten attempt went like this:
“To my dear Lady Macbeth,
I have just fort in the battle and I wun and also I was walking in the woods when I came across the 3 witches and they were telling me my future and Banquos they told me I was going to become Dane of Condor and king hereafter and Banqous children are going to be sons but then I thought there is already a thane of condom so now I have decided I am not gowing to kill the king (Duncan) after all.
And now I am coming to see you.
Your sincerely
Macbeth (he drew a heart)
Ps I’ll be coming in the next few days and conduct me to mine host we love him highly”.
So, the second attempt seems to have possibly had some external influence:
”
Lady Macbeth Shakespeare lane AB1.3 Scotland January 1057 Monday To My Dear Lady Macbeth, I have just fought in the battle of Scotland and we were victorious. I was walking back from the battle with Banquo and came across the three witches. They told me that I was going to be the Thane of Cordaw and that I was going to be king hereafter and I was told of Banquo’s future. The witches explained “your children will be kings,” However, I thought there is already a Thane of Cordaw. Meanwhile, the messenger arrived and told me that I was going to be Thane of Cordaw and that now I will be king hereafter. So now I have decided I will not kill the king because the witches didn’t say I had to kill the king to be king. And I am coming on my horse and coming to see you once again. your sincerely, Macbeth p.s I will be with you in a few days. xxxMuch better.
Little homework elves at play.
Love it.
