what i meant really is, im familiar with context, linking to the external issues. But when responding to the prompt how do i directly address it? it cant be like text response like, hence lady macbeths deceptive manipulation of macbeths moral values had him to etc.etc...
if i've got a topic about conflict and prejudice how can i mention this in my essay, do i have to subtly talk about it for the whole thing?
You're using your the prompt as a springboard for your ideas and comments made about your context. Take this Whose Reality prompt for example (yeah, worst context out there and I have it!)
"Perceptions, like opinions, can be altered"
I'd mind map this out to expand and look at the limitations of this statement.
Then you make comments off this and because it's off the prompt, you are addressing it. You then use your text and external examples to support whatever you're saying about the prompt.
For the prompt I gave, I said something to the effect of "Opinions of those around us can fluctuate between days, places and environments, making them more fluid and easier to change. However, perceptions are often influenced by memories, thus limiting the extent to which they can be altered because it is past experience that influences current understanding.
I hope that helped!