| What is the purpose of introducing the porter scene? | A break from the tension of the previous scene…comic relief heightens the effect of the blood and horror to come in the play. |
| Who enters next? | Macduff… along with Lennox. |
| What is the condition of the porter? | Hangover…but still has his wits. |
| What is the significance of the storm? | Nature is disordered … nature responds to unnatural acts inside the castle (the killing of the King..regicide). |
| What is the mental and emotional condition of Macbeth upon his entrance? | Mixed emotions… “joyful trouble”… promise of pleasure (realization of dream to be king) and pain (suffer torment and guilt for terrible crime he has committed). |
| What is the effect of the news of Duncan’s murder on Macduff? | He is frantic…hysterical. |
| What is the effect on Banquo? | He says this deed is too cruel for any place. |
| What is the effect on Malcolm and Donalbain? | Fears for their own lives… trust no one. Malcolm to England… Donalbain to Ireland. |
| Why does Macbeth kill the grooms? | Pretense of revenging Duncan’s murder and showing patriotism…actually fear of witness, disposing of possible witness. |
| Was this a wise or foolish decision? | Foolish… eventually led suspicions back to himself… first decision with the advice and planning with Lady Macbeth. |
Macbeth Act II Scene 3
August 4, 2019