MACBETH MEMO BOOKLET 2020

Questions on various scenes:

ACT I: SCENE I

a. What is the effect of starting the play with a witch scene? (It sets the mood as evil/supernatural. The

Elizabethan audience would have loved it! Exciting, ominous, reference to Macbeth – foreshadowing of his

evil turn.)

b. What effect would it have had in Shakespeare’s time? (Excitement, suspense, draw in audience

immediately.)

c. How many contradictory words can you find in the opening scene? (lost/won ; fair/foul)

d. What are the witches planning to do? (Meet Macbeth)

e. What does the atmosphere in this scene suggest about the play to follow? (Macbeth will be part of their evil

plan, Macbeth is not a good man, evil will reign. There will be magic/supernatural/evil.)

f. Write two or three lines explaining the action in this scene. (The witches meet in foul weather and discuss

meeting with Macbeth. There is definite foreboding of future evil. They discuss their future meeting.)

ACT I: SCENE II

a The sergeant describes a battle in the war between which two countries? (Scotland and Norway)

b Who are the heroes in that battle? (Macbeth and Banquo)

c The Captain, in reporting the battle to King Duncan, uses the image of swimming. Explain this image. (The

men fought hard

and were tired and sweaty. They clung to each other like swimmers in water do when they are about to

drown. They are

frantic and panicky.)

d Comment on the effectiveness of “Till he unseamed him from the nave to the chops.” (The killing was

violent, brutal –

Macbeth sliced the man open from belly-button to ribs.)

e What is meant by “Or memorise another Golgotha”? Explain fully. (Biblical reference to the killing of Jesus

and the other

sinners on the hill. They were tortured and killed.)

f What two decisions does Duncan make after hearing of the defeat of the enemy? Quote a line to support

your answer. (The

traitor will be executed and his title, Thane of Cawdor, will be given to Macbeth. “What he hath lost, noble

Macbeth hath

won.”)

g Comment on the dramatic irony in the words, “No more that Thane of Cawdor shall deceive / Our bosom

interests.”

(Duncan does not know that the new Thane of Cawdor, Macbeth, will betray him too. He will kill Duncan!)

h. What do we learn about Macbeth's character in this scene? (He is brave, loyal, respected and fearless.)

ACT I: SCENE III

a What do the witches predict for Macbeth? (He will be Thane of Cawdor and King.)

b What do they predict for Banquo? (He will have kings in his lineage.)

c Do the witches have good or bad intentions for Macbeth? How do you know? (Bad – they are witches! They

are evil beings.)

d Explain the dramatic irony in the witches' first prediction. (The audience already knows that Macbeth will be

given the title of

Thane of Cawdor. He does not.)

e Explain the irony in Macbeth’s opening words. (He speaks of a ‘foul and fair’ day, the same as the withes’

chant. There is a

clear link between them. He says it is foul (bad weather, war) and fair (victory). They imply that good things

(Macbeth) will

become evil (he will kill the king).

f Explain why Banquo says, “What, can the devil speak true?” (He refers to the witches as devils – link to evil.

Then Ross

comes to tell Macbeth that he is the new Thane of Cawdor – the witches’ prediction has come true.)

g Explain the differences in the ways Macbeth and Banquo receive the witches’ prophesies. (Macbeth is

intrigued and excited.

His mind immediately starts devising a plan… Banquo dismisses them although he likes the idea of kings in

his lineage.)

h When the prediction comes true immediately, what does Macbeth think about the other predictions? (They

might come true

too! He might be king. His evil mind is already making plans.)

i. What does Macbeth plan to do about the possibility of becoming king? (At this stage, nothing. He is

conflicted – he does not want to kill Duncan but he desires the throne.)

ACT I: SCENE IV

a What promise does Duncan make to Macbeth? (He will come and spend the night at Inverness.)

b To whom does king Duncan give the title Prince of Cumberland? (Malcolm, his eldest son)

c How does Macbeth respond to the announcement that Malcolm will he heir to the throne? Why? (He is upset

– this means

another hurdle to the throne.)

d What are Macbeth’s “black and deep desires” and what do these words reveal about his intentions at this

point? (He wants to

be king and is willing to do anything, even commit regicide. He has evil intentions.)

ACT I: SCENE V

a What does Macbeth’s letter to his wife suggest about the nature of their relationship? (They have a good

relationship, they

share all their secrets, they trust each other. They are ‘partners of greatness’ at this stage.)

b What is Lady Macbeth’s reaction to the prophesies of the witches? (She is excited at the prospect of Macbeth

being king.

However, she fears that Macbeth is too kind and will not have the guts to kill Duncan.)

c What (in her husband’s character) does the fear will prevent Macbeth from becoming King? (His kindness)

d Explain what it is that Lady Macbeth wishes the spirits to do to her. Why? (Take away her femininity, ‘unsex’

her – make her

cruel enough to be able to kill Duncan.)

e What message does the servant give to Lady Macbeth? (Duncan is on his way to Inverness.)

f Explain Lady Macbeth's plan for Duncan. (They will kill him and frame the guards!)

g Is there evidence that Macbeth has doubts about the murder? Explain. (Yes – his face is in ‘pain’ – he

struggles with the idea

of killing Duncan.)

h What advice does Lady Macbeth give her husband? (He must pretend that all is fine and leave the planning

to her.)

ACT I: SCENE VI

a How is the effect of this scene influenced by what you know of the Macbeths’ plans at this stage? (Duncan

and his men are

approaching Inverness and commenting on how pleasant and inviting it is. We know that the Macbeths are

already planning

his murder. They pretend to be gracious hosts.)

b Explain the dramatic irony in this scene. (Duncan compliments Inverness and says it is inviting and beautiful.

We know that his murder is being planned inside.)

ACT I: SCENE VII

a List the four reasons why Macbeth thinks he shouldn’t kill Duncan. (Duncan is his king – Macbeth is his

servant; his guest –

Macbeth should protect him; kin/family – Macbeth should not kill him! and a good man – he does not

deserve to die!)

b Name the only reason why he feels he should kill Duncan. (To be king himself)

c On which emotions does Lady Macbeth play in order to persuade him to kill Duncan? (Masculinity)

ACT II: SCENE I

a Why is Banquo uneasy? (He is afraid of the thoughts provoked by the witches’ prophesies.)

b Under what conditions does Banquo say he will listen to Macbeth? (When the time is right and also if NOT

to discuss the

furthering of the prophesies.)

c Macbeth imagines a dagger in front of him. What does this suggest about his state of mind? (He is already

going mad! He is

hallucinating.)

d Explain Macbeth's soliloquy and his feelings as he goes to commit the murder. (He sees a dagger pointing

towards Duncan’s

room. He is conflicted about killing Duncan – he is not convinced yet he sees the dagger as a sign TO do it.)

e What does the ringing of the bell mean? (Lady Macbeth has drugged the guards and Macbeth must do the

deed.)

ACT II: SCENE II

a Which words of Lady Macbeth’s suggest that she has not lost her humanity completely? (She is unable to

commit the murder

as Duncan resembles her father. There is still a semblance of humanity in her.)

b What does Macbeth, upon his entering the room, tell his wife he had just experienced? What does this tell us

about his state

of mind? (He heard noises and screaming. He is already wracked with guilt.)

c After Macbeth murders King Duncan he agonises over three things. What are they? (He will never sleep

again; he feels

guilty; his hands are bloodied.)

d What is Lady Macbeth’s advice to him and how is it ironic? (She advises him not to think about it and to

wash the blood off

his hands and that it will be enough to ‘cleanse’ them of the deed. Later, Lady Macbeth is mimicking hand-

washing

constantly and complains that she cannot clean her hands. SHE is the one who goes crazy, not Macbeth.)

e Notice the different responses to the blood on their hands. What does each response reveal about their

character? (He is

aghast, mortified, disgusted in what they did. She sees the blood as a temporary mark. He is remorseful, she

is pure evil.)

f What is Macbeth's attitude to Duncan at the end of this scene? (He regrets killing him, wishes he could wake

him.)

g As a soldier, Macbeth certainly has killed before. Why is he so disturbed now? (This was premeditated

murder, not in defence

of his country. He killed a good king/man.)

ACT II: SCENE III

a Why did Shakespeare include the Porter-scene? (Comic relief and to make another connection between the

Macbeths and

Hell.)

b Explain how comic relief is provided by the porter's speech. (He is a drunkard who makes silly jokes. He

makes

inappropriate references to urine, sex and alcohol and the link between the three.)

c What does Lennox tell Macbeth about the night that has just passed and why do you think these things

happened? (There had

been a terrible storm with eerie screams. The natural order of being has been disturbed by the killing of the

king.)

d Explain the irony when Macbeth says “Twas a rough night.” (He KNOWS why it was a rough night – he

killed the king. It

was also a rough night for him, as he is now wracked with guilt and shame.)

e Explain which additional killings took place and why. (Macbeth killed the two guards, supposedly in a fit of

rage because

they killed Duncan. We know that he killed them to tighten the Macbeths’ alibi.)

f What does Banquo suggest they should all do and what does he promise to do with God’s help? (They must

all meet and

discuss what had just happened. With God’s help he will find the murderer.)

g What might be the consequences of Malcolm and Donalbain fleeing? (They might be blamed for the murder

and neither will

be crowned as the next king.)

h Explain the dramatic irony when Macduff says: "0 gentle lady! "'Tis not for you to hear what I can speak...

(SHE is the one

who set the whole murder in action. She is NOT a ‘gentle lady’ but an evil woman!)

i What does Banquo decide to do, and why do you think he does not accuse Macbeth of the murder? (He will

find out if

Macbeth killed Duncan. He cannot accuse him yet, as he has no proof. Perhaps he is still desperately hoping

that his friend

did not do the deed.)

ACT II: SCENE IV

a What are the various ‘unnatural’ events that have taken place in the countryside? (It is dark during the day; a

falcon was

killed by an owl; the horses broke lose and killed/ate each other)

b What does this scene foreshadow? (Evil will reign under Macbeth – these unnatural events are all evil.)

b Who is believed to have killed Duncan, according to Macduff? (Duncan’s guards but also the sons)

c What suggests that Macduff has his doubt and suspicions about Macbeth? (He does not attend Macbeth’s

coronation.)

d The orderly scheme of nature is strangely affected by the murder. Shakespeare skilfully lets nature

correspond to man's acts. How is this revealed by the conversation in this scene? (The animals’ strange,

cannibalistic behaviour, darkness during the day and the owl killing a falcon. These are all reversed events

– evil has taken over from good.)

e Who is named successor to King Duncan? Why? (Macbeth – the sons have fled and he is most senior in rank

after them.)

f Where is the coronation to be held? (Scone) Now I want one. With jam. And cream. And coffee. Haha!

Scoooooooone.

ACT III: SCENE I

a Does Banquo suspect Macbeth? Explain. (Yes – “I fear thou played’st most foully for’t”)

b Why does Macbeth refer to Malcolm and Donalbain as “our bloody cousins”? (He still wants people to

believe that they had

their father killed/killed him.)

c In his soliloquy, we see Macbeth is afraid of someone – who? Why? What does he do? (He fears Banquo for

whom the

witches predicted a lineage of kings. Macbeth’s prophesies have come true, he does not want Banquo’s to

come true too. That

threatens his throne. He hires murderers to kill Banquo and his son, Fleance. No Banquo and no son = no

kings there!)

d COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING PARAPHRASE OF MACBETH'S SOLILOQUY:

To be king means nothing unless I am secure in the position. I have deep FEARS about Banquo and his

HONESTY and LOYALTY. Banquo is not only daring and courageous, but he has CONSCIENCE to guide

him to act in TRUTH. Banquo is the only one I FEAR and my own MIND (conscience) is CONFRONTED

(scolded) by him just as MARK ANTONY was by Caesar. He Challenged the WITCHES when they put the

name of CAWDOR upon me, and told them to SPEAK TO HIM; then they like a PROPHET hailed

HIM/BANQUO as the father to A LINE OF KINGS. The WITCHES said that I would become KING, but

have no successor of my own blood. If this is true, then I have defiled my MIND, murdered the GRACIOUS

DUNCAN, disturbed all of my PEACE and my ETERNAL JEWEL (soul) I have given to the common

ENEMY OF MAN(devil). I did all of this to make way for the SEEDS OF BANQUO to be kings. NO!.

Rather than let that happen I will fight against FATE (witches' prophecy) to the death!

ACT III: SCENE II

a Explain the image of the ‘snake’ in this scene. Whom does Macbeth refer to and why? Explain. (He calls

Banquo a snake –

he has the potential to ‘unthrone’/kill Macbeth with his knowledge. Duncan is dead but Macbeth is not

secure in his position)

b Why does Macbeth envy the late King Duncan? (Duncan will sleep eternally; Macbeth cannot sleep.)

c Are the Macbeths still ‘partners in crime’? Explain. (No – Macbeth does not tell Lady Macbeth about his

plan to kill Banquo.)

d Quote the lines that show that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth have reversed roles in their relationship as

compared to Act

One when King Duncan's murder was planned. (“Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest Chuck.” “Come

seeling night, scarf

up the tender eye of pitiful day” – he calls on darkness now, whereas Lady Macbeth did it in Act one.)

e “Things bad begun make strong themselves by ill.” What does Macbeth mean by this? (Things born from evil,

need more evil

to succeed. Bad+bad=SUPERbad)

ACT III: SCENE III

a Why does Macbeth send a third murderer along to kill Banquo and Fleance? (Macbeth is already paranoid

and wants to

ensure that the job is done properly.)

b What is significant about Fleance’s escape? (Banquo’s prophesy about having a lineage of kings, could still

come true.

Although Banquo is dead, his lineage lives on.)

ACT III: SCENE IV

a What details reveal the bloodthirsty nature of the murderers? (Banquo had 20 gashes to the head. There was

a lot of blood!)

b How does Macbeth console himself for a moment after hearing the news about Fleance? (Macbeth says that

Fleance is young

and will run away. He will not avenge his father’s death. He is not a threat to Macbeth’s crown. Fleance

also doesn’t know

about the prophesies.)

c When does Macbeth see Banquo’s ghost? How does he react? Why? (At the banquet. He FREAKS! He is

scared,

paranoid.)

d How does Lady Macbeth try to cover up? (She tells the guests that Macbeth has suffered from fits all his life,

it is temporary

and will pass quickly. She dismisses the party soon after.)

e Are the Macbeth’s sleeping well? (No! They are both plagued with nightmares, guilt and regret.)

f What two things does Macbeth now plan to do? Why? (He will visit the witches to hear more prophesies or

get clarity / assurance from them. He is now willing to keep on killing in order to keep the throne.)

ACT III: SCENE V

a Who is Hecate? (She is the ‘queen’ of the witches.)

b Explain the insights that Hecate has about Macbeth. (Macbeth is selfish and does not follow rules.)

c What reveals the witches’ intentions to destroy Macbeth? (They speak of his “dismal and fatal end”.)

d How does this scene reveal Macduff as the possible nemesis of Macbeth? (Macduff has gone to England and

joined Malcolm

and Siward in the Allied Forces which will fight against Macbeth.

ACT III: SCENE VI

a Describe Lennox’s tone in his words to the nobleman. What point does he make about Macbeth? (Lennox is

suspicious and

guarded. People didn’t know who to trust. He calls Macbeth a tyrant.)

b What information does the lord give concerning the whereabouts and intentions of Malcolm and Macduff?

(They have gone

to England and are joining the English forces to oppose Macbeth’s rule.)

c What does this mean for Macbeth and Scotland? (Trouble! There will be a brutal war.)

ACT IV: SCENE I

a Explain the three apparitions as they appear to Macbeth. (1st – an armed head who warns Macbeth against

the Thane of Fife

(Macduff); 2nd – a bloody child who tells Macbeth that none of woman born shall harm him; 3rd – a child

crowned with a tree

in his hand who tells Macbeth that he will remain safe until Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane Hill.)

b How does this make Macbeth feel? (He feels invincible! Surely all men are born of woman and a forest

cannot move.)

c What does Macbeth's intention to kill Macduff reveal about his character at this point? (He is ruthless and a

tyrant.)

c What angers Macbeth about the ‘show of eight kings’? (They are all Banquo’s descendants.)

d What is Macbeth’s reaction to the news that Macduff had fled to England? (He decides to have Macduff’s

family killed.)

e Explain the irony in the following statement by Macbeth; "Infected be the air whereon they ride / And

damn'd all those that trust them! ..." (Macbeth trusts them! It is ironic that he says they are not to be

trusted.)

ACT IV: SCENE II

a How does Ross’s view of Macduff’s flight to England differ from that of Lady Macduff’s? (Ross calls him a

patriot on a

mission to save Scotland. Lady Macduff calls him a traitor and a coward.)

b What reveals that Macduff’s young son believes his father was not a traitor? (He denies that his father is

dead.)

c What happens to them? (They are brutally killed by Macbeth’s soldiers.)

ACT IV: SCENE III

a Malcolm is not sure whether he can trust Macduff – why? In addition, how does he test Macduff? Why?

(Macduff might be a

spy sent by Macbeth. Malcolm tests Macduff by demeaning his own nobility and professing himself to be a

greater tyrant than

Macbeth. Malcolm hopes to goad Macduff into an open display of his loyalties.)

b What help has England offered Scotland? (Siward and 10 000 men to fight against Macbeth and his

soldiers.)

c What news does Ross bring to England? (Macduff’s entire family has been killed.)

d How does Shakespeare convey the depth of Macduff’s grief at the news of his family’s slaughter? (Repetition

of questions.)

e What does he vow to do? (He vows to take revenge and kill Macbeth.)

f What does Malcolm encourage Macduff to do with his grief? (Turn it into anger and fight in their honour.)

ACT V: SCENE I

a Why is the gentlewoman reluctant to report what she has heard Lady Macbeth saying while sleepwalking?

(Lady Macbeth

confessed to the killing of Duncan. It would incriminate the queen and, as her lady-in-waiting, it could go

against her

loyalties to the queen.)

b What is ironic about the fact that Lady Macbeth permanently has a light with her? (Before Duncan’s

assassination, she asked

the spirits of darkness to ‘unsex’ her. Now she fears the dark and craves light.)

c Why is she rubbing her hands? (She is cleaning them of blood. She hallucinates Duncan’s blood on her

hands.)

d What change do we see in Lady Macbeth in spirit and stature? (She seems lost, out of control, afraid, weak.

She was strong

and brave before Duncan’s murder.)

e What is the diagnosis for Lady Macbeth? What does she need? Can she get it? (She does not have a physical

ailment, she is

psychologically damaged. She needs God – “more needs she the divine than the physician” – she can’t get it.

Her guilt is too

much and she denounced God when she appealed to the spirits of darkness.)

f How does Lady Macbeth's condition differ from Macbeth's at this time? (She is out of control, weak. He is

ruthless, a tyrant.)

ACT V: SCENE II

a Who are the men in this scene, awaiting the arrival of the English Forces? Explain their conversation. (The

Scottish thanes

who are loyal to Malcolm. They are discussing the upcoming battle against Macbeth.)

b What is Macbeth doing in response to the latest rebellion against him? (He is fortifying the castle.)

c What is the ultimate intention of these men? (Overthrow Macbeth and give the throne to Malcolm!)

ACT V: SCENE III

a How would you describe Macbeth’s mood at the start of the scene? (He is agitated.)

b What does Macbeth's opening speech reveal to us? (He believes firmly in the prophesies of the witches. He

feels invincible.)

c What other aspect is there to his mood, however? (He seems afraid?)

c What is Macbeth asking the doctor to do? (The doctor must heal Lady Macbeth.)

d In what does Macbeth trust at this point? (The witches’ prophesies.)

e What does Macbeth resolve to do? Why? (He will fight – he still believes that he is invincible.)

ACT V: SCENE IV

a Explain Malcolm’s instructions to his men. (The men must cut down branches from the trees in Birnam forest

and disguise

their numbers for their approach to Dunsinane.)

b From what you see in this scene, and knowing the prophesies, who are most likely to be victorious? Why?

(Malcolm and

Macduff will be victorious. The audience knows that the witches want to destroy, not protect, Macbeth.)

ACT V: SCENE V

a What news does Seyton bring Macbeth? (Lady Macbeth is dead.)

b Explain why Macbeth is confident in the face of the approaching armies. (He still, foolishly, believes the

witches’ prophesies,

especially the one about ‘no man of woman born’.)

c Why is Macbeth not startled by the cry of the women? Has he changed since the start of the play? (He is used

to crying and

fear and death. He is now a heartless tyrant.)

d Explain his reaction to the news of his wife’s death. (He says she died too soon. He doesn’t seem too upset

though. He soon

forgets about her and her death.)

e Macbeth’s final soliloquy is one of the most famous passages of this play. List 4 things to which Macbeth

compares life. (A

candle – burns out quickly; a “walking shadow” – it is not tangible or important; a ‘poor player’ – life has

no meaning, it is forgettable; a stupid story – it means nothing.)

f How does Macbeth express the span of life? Name and explain three things. (Short – candle, A scene in a

play – a poor player would be off-stage and act only for a brief scene; a tale – short!)

g How does he express the futility of life? (“Signifying nothing”)

h Despite his feelings of despair and hopelessness, Macbeth still manages to remain determined and

courageous in the

face of the attack. What reveals this? (He puts on his armour and states that he will fight to the death.)

ACT V: SCENE VI

a Why did Shakespeare put in such a short scene at this stage of the play? (Cut to outside castle to focus on

approaching army.)

ACT V: SCENE VII

a In what is Macbeth trusting as he goes into battle? (That now man of woman born can harm him.)

b Who kills Young Siward? (Macbeth)

c Why is it important to Macduff that HE kills Macbeth? (He needs to avenge his family’s murders.)

d What, according to Siward and Malcolm, has made their task of defeating Dunsinane so easy? (Macbeth has

no allies – all

have joined Malcolm’s side. There is no-one to protect the castle.)

ACT V: SCENE VIII

a Why does Macbeth say he has avoided Macduff so far? (He says that he has Macduff’s entire family’s blood

on his hands

already. He does not want to have to kill Macduff too.)

b Explain the final trick the witches played on Macbeth. (Macduff was not born of woman, he was delivered

via Caesarean

section and thus ‘ripped’ from his mother’s womb. Macduff can defeat Macbeth!)

c What does Macbeth finally realise about the witches and what they have done to him? (They tricked him!)

d What is Macbeth’s final attitude as he fights Macduff? (He fights bravely and dies.)

ACT V: SCENE IX

a Ross is the bearer of bad news again. What does he tell Siward? (His son was killed by Macbeth.)

b Malcolm is hailed as the rightful king of Scotland. What does he plan to do as King? (Bring back all who

have fled, honour

those who fought by making them earls, invites all to his coronation at Scone and restore order to Scotland.)

TRUE- FALSE—Mark each statement either true (T) or false (F).

01. _T__At the end of the play, Malcolm becomes king.

02. _F__Lady Macbeth takes part in Banquo’s murder.

03. _T__Even though she is warned of treachery, Lady Macduff is killed

04. _F__The thanes are loyal to Macbeth to the end.

05. _T__Macbeth’s chief fear is punishment after death.

06. _T__The witches predict Banquo’s heirs will be kings.

07. _F__Banquo faints after the killing of Duncan.

08. _T__Lady Macbeth does not see Banquo’s ghost.

09. _T__Malcolm knows Macbeth better than Duncan does.

10. _T__The witches have human form.

11. _F__The doctor says Lady Macbeth suffers from a fatal illness.

12. _T/F__Macbeth and his wife love each other deeply.

13. _F__Macbeth’s explanation of Duncan’s death satisfies the kings’ sons.

14. _F__Duncan is suspicious of Macbeth.

15. _T__Remorse ruins Lady Macbeth’s enjoyment of success.

“Macbeth” Contextual 1

1.1 “Soliciting” is described in the dictionary as “incitement to do something wrong”. In your own words,

explain what Macbeth has been solicited to do. By whom? (2) (Macbeth has just heard the witches’

prophesies and is already thinking about killing Duncan in order to become king.)

1.2 What are the two truths that are told? (2) (He is thane of Glamis and has just been given the title of thane of

Cawdor.)

1.3 What is the “imperial theme”? (1) (Being the king)

1.4 Why does Macbeth say, “This supernatural soliciting / Cannot be ill, cannot be good”? (2) (Cannot be ill –

can’t be all bad! Can’t be good – he needs to commit regicide in order to take the throne.)

1.5 What physical reaction does Macbeth have when he thinks of the prophesy? (1) (He feels scared/horrified)

1.6 Macbeth is struggling to make sense of the witches’ prophecy. Explain. (2) (He is already Thane of Cawdor

and thus the title of King should come naturally. He shudders at the idea of having to kill the king, yet

REALLY wants the title.)

1.7 “If good, why do I yield to that suggestion / Whose horrid image doth unfix my hair / And make my seated

heart knock at my ribs.” What is the “horrid image” that makes Macbeth uneasy? (2) (Picturing him killing

Duncan.)

1.8 Has Macbeth already thought of murdering Duncan? Give evidence from the speech. (2) (Yes – “murder yet

is fantastical”)

1.9 What line in this extract suggests a link to the theme of appearance versus reality? (1) (“Nothing is but what

is not.” (15)

“Macbeth” Contextual 2

2.1 Who is Macbeth addressing in the opening line? (1) (Lady Macbeth)

2.2 What does Macbeth mean in the opening sentence of the extract? (2) (She must not know about/ask about

the killing of Banquo. She must just praise him when the deed is done.)

2.3 How is this different from his previous behaviour? (3) (Previously he needed coaxing and Lady Macbeth

and she was firmly in charge of the plans to kill Duncan. Now Macbeth is firmly in charge and Lady

Macbeth is the one in the ‘dark’.)

2.4 What is the significance of this? (1) (Their roles have been reversed.)

2.5 He calls for darkness to cover up his actions. Why? (2) (He knows that everything he does from now on, will

be evil and evil is symbolised by the darkness. He is led by the evil witches and their prophesies.)

2.6 When has this been wished for elsewhere in the play? Quote to substantiate. (2) (Lady Macbeth asks for the

“spirits of darkness” to unsex her/take away her femininity before the killing of Duncan.)

2.7 There are many words used in this extract that have negative, evil connotations. Quote and explain. (4)

(‘seeling’ – stitching up of a falcon’s eyes – hide the truth?; ‘bloody’ – evil deeds; ‘crow’ – symbolic of

death and evil; ‘night’s black agents’ – witches, evil; ‘bad’/’ill’ – evil!

(15)

“Macbeth” Contextual 3

3.1 Place this extract in context. (2) (Macbeth and Banquo have just met the witches on the heath and they

have proclaimed

wonderful prophesies. Ross and Angus arrive to bestow the title of Thane of Cawdor on Macbeth, as

the witches promised.)

3.2 Who are the ‘instruments of darkness’ referred to in line 11? (1) (Witches / weird sisters)

3.3 What promise was made to Banquo? (1) (His sons / grandsons / future generations will be king.)

3.4 Name the two truths that have already been told by the ‘instruments of darkness.’ (2) (Macbeth is

Thane of Glamis and

Thane of Cawdor.)

3.5 Briefly describe two other prophecies that become truths later in the play. (2) (Macbeth becomes King

by killing Duncan; Birnam Wood comes to Dunisane; Macduff, born by caesarean section and thus not

‘of woman born’, kills Macbeth.)

3.6.1 What does the word ‘aside’ mean? (1) (Said so that only audience can hear speaker’s ‘thoughts’.)

3.6.2 In your own words explain the above line. (Explain both “ill” and good”.) (4) (Macbeth feels that the

news that he will be King cannot be good, nor can it be bad. Not good – it means he will have to kill

the king and he does not want to do that. Reveals his evil desires. Not bad – he will be King! That’s

awesome! First two prophesies have come true. Then surely it can’t be evil/bad?)

3.7 “Nothing is but what is not” (lines 29-30) In your own words explain the meaning of this line and

identify the theme which relates to this line. (2) (Nothing is concrete yet – he has only THOUGHT

about killing Duncan. One cannot know the inner thoughts of a man. Theme of Appearance vs reality)

“Macbeth” Contextual 4 – This is actually extract B of the previous contextual. Don’t know

why I split them. I need coffee.

4.1 Which country is referred to in line 1? (1) (Scotland)

4.2 Explain the meaning of line 1 “Bleed, bleed poor country! (2) (Scotland is personified and is bleeding

like a wounded soldier. Macbeth has wounded Scotland is it (Scotland) is bleeding to death.)

4.3 Quote and explain one example of personification from lines 2-13 and how it relates to the state of the

country mentioned in question 6.8. (2) (NOT “bleed, bleed” – that is in line 1. Questions states 2-13!

Line 2 – tyranny personified; Goodness in line 3; Title afeared in line 4; Country sinks beneath the

yoke – line 10

Weeps, bleeds, gash – line 11; Her wounds – line 12 - Quote and explain!)

4.4 To whom does Malcolm refer in line 20 and how does this relate to his plan to save his country? (2)

(Himself – he will kill Macbeth and claim the throne as rightfully his.)

4.5 ‘Black Macbeth will seem as pure as snow’ (lines 24) Why does Malcolm refer to Macbeth as ‘Black

Macbeth’? Also – explain the line in context of Malcolm’s statement in lines 24-27. (3) (Black – evil.

Macbeth’s evil deeds will seem ‘angelic’ next to Malcolm’s revenge which will be bloody and mighty

and unreservedly brutal against the tyrant ‘butcher’!)

“Macbeth” Contextual 5

5.1 Who is the “He” that Lady Macbeth and Macbeth are referring to in lines 2 –5? (1) (King Duncan)

5.2.1 Which ‘business’ does Macbeth not want to proceed with? (2) (He does not want to kill Duncan.)

5.2.2 How may Macbeth benefit if they proceed with the business? (2) (He will become King of Scotland.)

5.2.3 In a paragraph plot the events leading up to the ‘business’ being referred to. (4) (Lady Macbeth will

drug the guards,

Macbeth kills Duncan, frame the guards by smearing blood on them, become King and Queen!)

5.3 Macbeth says, “He hath honoured me of late, … “(line 7). Which honour was bestowed on him? (2)

(Duncan gave

Macbeth the title of Thane of Cawdor after his victory against the traitor, Macdonwald.)

5.4 Lady Macbeth calls Macbeth a coward in line 19. Give two reasons why you would disagree with her.

(2) (Macbeth is a

brave soldier and loyal to the throne, up to now.)

5.5 In this extract Lady Macbeth is ______Macbeth. Explain your answer. (2) (B-taunting)

5.6 In the extract, two differences between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth become evident. In a short

paragraph explain what

these two differences are. (Remember, do not quote directly from the extract) (4) (Macbeth is brave

and loyal and, at this stage, ambivalent about killing Duncan. Lady Macbeth is ruthless and will do

anything to be queen. She taunts Macbeth and implies that he is not a real man for not being willing to

commit regicide.)

5.7 Transcribe the following question into modern English so that it retains its original meaning.

“Art thou afeard / To be the same in thine own act and valour / As thou art in desire? (lines 15-16) (2)

(Are you afraid/scared to act on your desires/wishes?)

5.8 What is the “ornament of life” that Lady Macbeth refers to in line 17? (2) (The crown – being the king)

5.9 Refer to line 36. ‘We fail’?

5.9.1 The tone of Lady Macbeth’s in this question is one of … Explain your answer. (2) (C – scorn. She

believes absolutely that their plan will succeed and is scornful of Macbeth’s fear/insecurity.) 5.10 From your knowledge of the play, does Lady Macbeth and Macbeth’s long term plan fail? (1) (Yes/No

– this can be argued both way. They succeed in becoming rulers, but their rule is unsuccessful.)

5.11 Give any two facts from the play that support your answer to 5.10. (4) (They become King and Queen.

They rule Scotland. However – Lady Macbeth kills herself, Macbeth’s followers desert him and he is

killed by Macduff.) (30)

“Macbeth” Contextual 6

6.1 What is Malcolm’s title? (1) (He is Prince of Cumberland)

6.2 Of what importance is this title? (2) (He is the heir to the Scottish throne – next in line to be King.)

6.3 Explain how it is, then, that Macbeth is king of Scotland? (2) (After their father’s murder, the sons –

Malcolm and

Donalbain – fled Scotland. Macbeth, as the highest ranking person in the army, was crowned king.)

6.4 Explain the figurative meaning of the words ‘Stands Scotland where it did?’ (2) (Is Scotland still in the

same chaotic state?)

6.5 “The tyrant has not battered at their peace?”(line 27)

6.5.1 Who is the tyrant Macduff is referring to’? (2) (Macbeth)

6.5.2 Ross’s answer (line 27) could be ambiguous. Explain two possible meanings. (4) (They are fine OR at

peace in their

deaths.)

6.6 What does the alliteration in “dire distresses” emphasise about the state of the people of Scotland? (2)

(They are suffering.)

6.7 Why are the people in Scotland in such a state? (3) (Macbeth is a bad king! People are poor, starving

and fleeing. The

country is not being run properly.)

6.8 Ross says he has “heavily borne tidings”(line 31).

6.8.1 What are the tidings he brings? (2) (Macduff’s entire family has been slaughtered by Macbeth’s

soldiers.)

6.8.2 At the end of the play Macduff has his revenge. Briefly explain how he does this. (2) (He kills

Macbeth.)

6.9 Explain why Macbeth would be afraid of Macduff. Refer to the witches in your answer. (5) (The

witches warn him against the Thane of Fife, Macduff’s title. Also – Macduff was born via caesarean

section and thus negates the witches’ prophesy about Macbeth not being slain by a man born of

woman. Macbeth killed Macduff’s entire family and he would be out for revenge.)

6.10 Whose “eye in Scotland” (line 34) would create soldiers? (1) (Malcolm)

6.11 Explain what Ross means when he says he saw the “tyrant’s power afoot” (2) (He saw what Macbeth

has done to the country and its people.)

“Macbeth” Contextual 7

8.1 Why has the former mane of Cawdor been sentenced to death (line 1)? (1) (He committed treason by

joining the Norwegian forces in battle against Scotland.)

8.2 This execution has great significance for Macbeth. Explain why this is so by referring to:

8.2.1 the witches’ prophecies (He receives the title of Thane of Cawdor, as predicted by the witches.)

8.2.2 who gets the title (Thane of Cawdor) (Macbeth)

8.2.3 Macbeth’s reaction to these prophecies. (3) (He is excited! He might be king.)

8.3 The description of Cawdor’s death inevitably leads to a comparison with Macbeth’s death. State:

8.3.1 who meets his death more nobly; (1) (The first Thane of Cawdor)

8.3.2 what the main differences between these two deaths are (2) (The first Thane of Cawdor repents and

asks for forgiveness. Macbeth does not repent or ask for forgiveness.

8.4 Malcolm says that Cawdor “throw(s) away the dearest thing he owed4 and later in the play Macbeth

laments that he has

given his “eternal jewel” to “the common enemy of man” (Act 3/1/67-68). State:

8.4.1 what this ‘dearest thing” is for Cawdor; (1) (Title? Reputation? Duncan’s trust in him?)

8.4.2 what Macbeth threw away for a chance to be king; (2) (Sense of loyalty, reputation, conscience)

8.4.3 what this decision reveals about Macbeth’s character. (2) (Devious, conscienceless, evil)

8.5 Read the following lines carefully and answer the questions which follow: ‘There’s no art / To find the

mind’s construction in the face. / He was a gentleman on whom I built An absolute trust.” (lines 11-14)

8.5.1 About whom is Duncan talking? (1) (First Thane of Cawdor)

8.5.2 Explain why it could be said that Duncan does not learn from his mistake. Refer to the irony of these

lines. (3) (The first

Thane of Cawdor betrayed Duncan. Duncan gives the title to Macbeth who ALSO betrays him by

killing him!)

8.6.1 Write down only the letter of the correct answer.

Duncan makes use of an agricultural metaphor when addressing Macbeth (lines 28-29): 1 have begun to

plant thee, and

will labour To make thee full of growing” (2) (A. metaphor)

8.6.2 Why would Macbeth be justified in expecting great rewards after hearing these words? (2) (Duncan

trusts him and

knows that he is a brave, loyal soldier who deserves praise and reward.)

8.7 Compare Duncan’s greeting of Macbeth with his greeting of Banquo. What do we learn about Duncan

from this? (2) (He greets Macbeth first but praises them equally. Duncan is a fair, good king. He has

respect for all his soldiers equally.)

8.8 What is meant by, ‘My plenteous joys ... seek to hide themselves! In drops of sorrow” (lines 33-35)? (2)

(In all goodthings, there are bad/sad things too. Despite their victory, Duncan is sad about the

betrayals of Macdonwald and the Thane of Cawdor.)

8.9 Refer to lines 38-40, ‘We will establish our estate upon’ Our eldest, Malcolm’

8.9.1 Explain why it would cause considerable tension if there were a long pause between the word “upon’

and “Our eldest

Malcolm’? (2) (Macbeth expected the title to be his! The first prediction has come true. Malcolm being

next in line sets

him back.)

8.9.2 Explain why this could be seen as a turning point in the play. (2) (Macbeth realizes that is he wants the

throne, he will

have to take it by force.

(30)

“Macbeth” Contextual 9

9.1 Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are giving this banquet for two reasons. What are these reasons? [2] (A show

of power! Also to honour Banquo – a great alibi for Macbeth who has ordered murderers to kill Banquo

and Fleance.)

9.2 Two people (lords) are not present at the banquet. Name these two lords and state why each has not

attended the banquet. [4] (Macduff – he doesn’t trust Macbeth and did not even attend

his coronation. Banquo had business elsewhere. Also – the two sons have fled Scotland after their

father’s murder.)

9.3 Macbeth tries to turn opinion against Banquo by stating that he would “rather challenge (him,) for

unkindness than for mischance (lines 43-44). Why is it necessary to turn people against Banquo? [4]

(Macbeth knows that Banquo could tell everyone about the witches’ prophesies and place suspicion on

his (Macbeth’s) head for the murder of Duncan. Macbeth also knows that Banquo is about to be killed.

He wants Banquo’s death to be a relief, of sorts, for the people. He need the people to believe that

Banquo is a bad guy.

9.4 What causes Macbeth to start back in horror (lines 48-49)? [1] (Macbeth ‘sees’ Banquo’s ghost.)

9.5 What is the meaning of “gory” (line 52)? [1] (gruesome, ghastly)

9.6 The words “my lord is often thus” (line 54) are bound to have an effect on the thanes. What could they

be expected to

think of Macbeth after hearing his wife say this? [4] (He is crazy! He has been suffering from psychotic

spells all his life

and might not be a good king?)

9.7 Why, in a stage production, would Lady Macbeth draw her husband off to the side of the stage when she

says the words “Are you a man?” (line 59)? [2] (She needs to convince him to play the part of the

brave king. She cannot allow his behaviour cast suspicion on them)

9.8 Lady Macbeth has used this argument (“Are you a man?’) once before. What was the previous occasion

and how

successful was that argument then as opposed to now? [2] (Before the murder of Duncan. It was

successful, as Lady

Macbeth convinced him to kill the king. Now it seems Macbeth is falling apart – he is not acting manly

and bravely. (20)

“Macbeth” Contextual 10

10.1 Place this passage in context. (2) (Duncan has come to stay at Inverness after giving Macbeth the title

of Thane of Cawdor. The Macbeths are discussing Duncan’s murder. Lady Macbeth is determined,

Macbeth is not convinced yet.)

10.2 What is the “it” that Macbeth is referring to in lines 1 and 2? (1) (Assassination of Duncan)

10.3 Refer to line 7: “We’d jump the life to come.” Explain Macbeth’s greatest reason against committing

the murder. (2) (He fears punishment in the afterlife.)

10.4 Refer to lines 10-20. Macbeth proceeds to give three more reasons why he should not commit the

murder. List them in order. (3) (Duncan is family, Macbeth is his loyal subject and Duncan is a good

king.)

10.5.1 Name the figure of speech in line 21. (1) (Simile)

10.5.2 Explain this figure of speech by examining lines 21-25. (2) (Duncan is as innocent as a baby. Heaven’s

angels will

shout out Macbeth’s guilt.)

10.6 Quote two words that he uses to name his weakness. (2) (“Vaulting ambition”)

10.7 Show how the last four lines of this extract introduce a new atmosphere. Name the atmosphere and

then explain HOW

it is achieved. (2) (They are questioning each other – nervous/on edge.)

1.8.1 Shakespeare uses a certain verse-form in this extract. What is it? Give evidence to prove your answer.

(2) (Prose – no rhyme.)

10.9 Refer to lines 1-2. Discuss the different reactions of Macbeth and Banquo to the “weird women”. (2)

(Macbeth is excited

about their prophesies. Banquo is hesitant and likes what he hears. Macbeth will pursue the words,

Banquo won’t,)

10.10 Refer to line 3: “Thou played’st most foully ” Show how these words reveal Banquo’s state of mind. (2)

(Banquo suspects

that Macbeth killed Duncan in order to be king.)

10.11 Refer to line 8. Give a synonym for the word ‘verities’. (1) (truths)

10.12 Refer to line 10. How would Banquo be “set …up in hope”? (2) (The witches predicted that he would

have kings in his

lineage.)

10.13 Banquo is addressing the audience. What name is given to this technique? (1) (soliloquy) (25)