Introduction: Why read Shakespeare in the Twenty-First Century?  Can our generation relate to the ideas expressed so long ago? These questions are answered by a never-ending stream of people who continue to find relevance in William Shakespeare’s renowned literature because it explores such universal themes as politics, religion, sin and redemption, and examines such basic human emotions as love, hate, fear, jealousy, and ambition. As a result, this Learning Guide will provide students with some of the skills necessary to understand and appreciate various aspects of a Shakespearean play, particularly the Tragedy of Macbeth.