OK, let's get this scene-by-scene retelling of Macbeth underway! I set you up with the dramatis personae on Tuesday, so it's time to plunge right into the first scene:
In case you don't know, Macbeth is supposed to be cursed. It's supposed to be bad luck to say "Macbeth", especially in a theatre. As someone who is primarily an audience member (as opposed to an actor or other theatre professional) I haven't developed the reflexive habit of automatically substituting "The Scottish Play" or "Mackers" for the offending title. I'm trying to train myself to do so, however, so I don't unintentionally freak anyone out.
I'll let Edmund Blackadder take it from here...
The palace entertains two distinguished and highly superstitious actors. Blackadder is careful not to mention the name of the Scottish play. Funny clip taken from the classic BBC comedy Blackadder.