Share Shakespeare's Macbeth
Save to Folder
What title does Macbeth receive after his victory in battle, and why is this significant?
He becomes Thane of Cawdor, fulfilling part of the witches’ prophecy and sparking his ambition to become king.
Why do Malcolm and Donalbain flee after Duncan’s murder?
They fear they will be the next targets and believe their lives are in danger.
What is Macbeth’s motivation for arranging the murder of Banquo and Fleance?
He fears Banquo’s descendants will take the throne, as the witches prophesied Banquo would "get kings."
How does Lady Macbeth cover for her husband during the banquet scene when he sees Banquo’s ghost?
She tells the guests he often has strange fits and urges them to leave.
What are the three main apparitions shown to Macbeth in Act 4, and what do they each mean?
1. Beware Macduff; 2. No man of woman born shall harm Macbeth; 3. Macbeth is safe until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane.
How does Lady Macduff react to her husband’s departure, and what ultimately happens to her?
She feels abandoned and betrayed, but is murdered along with her son by Macbeth’s assassins.
In what ways is Banquo different to Macbeth?
Banquo receives a prophecy but does not act on it, highlighting Macbeth’s ambition and moral weakness.
How does Lady Macbeth’s character change over the course of the play?
She begins as ruthless and manipulative but later is consumed by guilt and descends into madness.
What does Macduff’s reaction to the death of his family reveal about him?
It shows his humanity and depth of emotion, and also sets him up as Macbeth’s moral opposite.
Why is Malcolm cautious in trusting Macduff in Act 4, Scene 3?
He fears that Macduff might be luring him back to Scotland to betray him to Macbeth.
How does the ending of the play restore order to Scotland?
Macbeth’s tyranny ends with his death, and Malcolm, the rightful heir, takes the throne, signalling a return to legitimate leadership and the Chain of Being.
Who discovers Duncan’s body?
Macduff
How does Macbeth justify killing Duncan’s guards?
He claims he was so enraged by Duncan’s murder that he acted out of loyalty and love.
Who is Hecate, and why is she angry with the witches?
She is the goddess of witchcraft, angry that the witches acted without her and manipulated Macbeth recklessly.
What vision does Macbeth have before killing Duncan?
A dagger floating in the air, leading him to Duncan’s chamber.
How does Macbeth react to Lady Macbeth’s death?
He shows weariness and fatalism rather than strong emotion.
