What is the point of the first scene in reference to the whole play? | It sets an evil over the whole play; they are going to bring about Macbeth’s destruction |
What does Duncan call Macbeth when he hears that Macbeth has defeated Macdonwald? | A valiant cousin, worthy gentleman |
Who is sentenced to death? | Thane of Cawdor |
What do the witches predict in Act 1, Scene 3 for Macbeth? For Banquo? | Macbeth as Thane of Cawdor, and king. Banquo is lesser than Macbeth yet greater, he won’t be king but his sons will. |
What news does Ross bring Macbeth? | The battle is over and Duncan bestowed him the Thane of Cawdor in addition to having the Thane of Glamis |
What does Banquo say about the “instrument of darkness”? | tell us truth to win us over, and give us little victories/rewards to lead us to greater destruction |
Macbeth says “Stars hide your fires/ Let light see my black desires” what desires is he talking about? | his desire to take over, be king, and get more power |
After Lady Macbeth reads his letter, what does she say about her husband and how does she plan to “help” him? | that he is not ruthless enough to take control of what he wants; and she will talk him into it |
What is Lady Macbeth’s prayer to the spirits after she learns Duncan is coming? | for the spirits to make her as cruel and ruthless as she can be |
What advice does Lady Macbeth give Macbeth when he arrives home? | be the perfect host and act innocent but be ready to strike when needed |
What are Macbeth’s reasons for why he should not kill Duncan? | Duncan is Macbeth’s king, relative, and guest |
What arguments does Lady Macbeth use to convince Macbeth to commit the murder? | she questions Macbeth’s manhood: man or mouse? And there is no way they can fail |
What is Lady Macbeth’s plan? | drug the guards, kill Duncan, and frame the guards by using their daggers and put Duncan’s blood on them |
Macbeth- Study Guide Questions Act 1
July 27, 2019