Why is 'Macbeth' Called 'The Scottish Play'? Unraveling the Superstition

Macbeth, the iconic play by William Shakespeare, has a profound impact that extends beyond its literary value. The play has a rich history intertwined with superstitions and ghost stories, leading many actors to refer to it as the 'Scottish Play.' Let us delve into the reasons behind this peculiar tradition.

Superstitions Surrounding 'Macbeth'

For centuries, there has been a pervasive superstition surrounding the play 'Macbeth.' This belief is so strong that actors and crew members often avoid mentioning the name 'Macbeth' at all costs, instead using the term 'The Scottish Play.' The origins of this superstition lie in a genuine fear of the play bringing misfortune and even danger.

Casperian Ghost Story Tradition

The superstition has deep roots and has been carried from generation to generation, akin to a Casperian ghost story. The belief stems from a historical event where a stage production of 'Macbeth' led to the death of an actor. In 1947, in Bolton, Englad, an actor playing Macbeth was stabbed during a fight scene with Macduff and passed away in the hospital later. This tragic incident has fueled the actors' superstition about the play and its reputation for invoking misfortune.

Practical Instances of the Superstition

The effect of this superstition has been documented in various settings. One particularly poignant instance occurred in an amateur theatrical production in the 1960s. During a performance in Act One, Scene Three, the lights failed while the witches were onstage. The cast tried for half an hour to get the lights back but ultimately had to evacuate the audience. Remarkably, the play resumed when the audience left. However, the actor playing Macbeth found the role so distressing that he never took on another speaking part, emphasizing the seriousness of the superstition.

Historical Context and Shakespeare's Titles

Shakespeare's title choices were not arbitrary. When considering other names like 'Singing in the Rain' or 'The Maltese Falcon,' he opted for the title of his most significant character, a common practice in his works. Shakespeare’s adherence to this pattern can be seen in several other plays, including 'King Lear,' 'Othello,' 'Romeo and Juliet,' and 'Pericles.' This tradition reflects the central role of the main character in the story and the importance of setting the scene.

Understanding the Scottish Castle and Title

In the play, 'Macbeth' refers to the eponymous Scottish castle where the action is set, a common trope used by playwrights to orient the audience. This is further emphasized by an actress, whose maiden aunt played Macbeth and experienced its rapturous receptions. Yet beyond the castle's role in setting the scene, the title 'Macbeth' serves as a direct identifier of the play's protagonist and narrative.

Conclusion

The unease surrounding the name 'Macbeth' is a testament to the enduring legacy of Shakespeare's play and the human touch that makes theater such a captivating art form. The superstition, while seemingly absurd, reflects a deep respect for the power of stories and the mysterious bonds that link humans to characters on the stage.