english macbeth act 1 quotes

• What poetic form is used in the witches' dialogue in Macbeth?

  Trochaic tetrameter
• What effect does the witches' use of rhyming couplets have on the play?


  It gives a sinister air to the play.
• How does the dropping of the last syllable in the witches' lines affect the rhythm?

  It forces a pause, emphasizing the final word "Macbeth."
• What does the oxymoron "Fair is foul and foul is fair" suggest?


  Things aren't always who they seem.
• How does Macbeth's character demonstrate bravery in Act 1?


  He shows bravery by fighting without concern for his safety.
• What does the phrase "Till he unseamed him from the nave to th' chaps" reveal about Macbeth?


  It shows his skill and efficiency in battle.
• What does the term "smoked with bloody execution" imply about Macbeth's actions?


  It suggests he is callous and enjoys killing.
• How does Duncan describe Macbeth in Act 1?

  As a "valiant cousin" and "worthy gentleman."
• What does Shakespeare suggest about warlike men in a warlike society?


  It leads to the breeding of characters like Macbeth.
• What does the foreshadowing in "I'll drain him dry as hay" imply about Macbeth's fate?


  He will be drained physically and morally by the end of the play.
• What is Banquo's reaction to the witches?


  He is skeptical and wary about them.
• What does Macbeth's reaction to the witches' prophecies suggest about his character?


  He may have previously considered becoming king, indicating guilt.
• How does the loss of sleep affect Macbeth's mental state?


  It contributes to his downfall as he loses his mental stability.
• What does Lady Macbeth fear about Macbeth's nature?


  That he is too full of "the milk of human kindness."
• What does Lady Macbeth's imperative "Come" suggest about her character?


  She is attempting to control the evil spirits.
• What does the metaphor "look like th' innocent flower but be the serpent under't" imply?


  It suggests concealment of true identity and intentions.
• How does Duncan perceive the castle where he will be murdered?


  He describes it as having a "pleasant seat" and sweet air.
• What dramatic irony is present in Duncan's visit to Macbeth's castle?


  Duncan is unaware that Macbeth plans to murder him.
• What does Macbeth's soliloquy about killing Duncan reveal about his internal conflict?


  He is torn between his ambition and moral hesitation.
• What does Lady Macbeth do to manipulate Macbeth's decision to kill Duncan?


  She insults his masculinity.
• What does the phrase "False face must hide what the false heart doth know" suggest about Macbeth's actions?


  He must conceal his true intentions behind a façade.
• What are the key events in Scene 4 of Macbeth?


  • Duncan praises Macbeth for bravery
  • Duncan names Malcolm as heir
  • Macbeth sees this as an obstacle
  • Macbeth leaves to inform Lady Macbeth
• What are the key events in Scene 5 of Macbeth?


  • Lady Macbeth reads Macbeth's letter
  • She worries he is too kind
  • Invokes evil spirits to "unsex" her
  • Persuades Macbeth to kill Duncan
  • Outlines a plan to frame Duncan's guards
• What does Lady Macbeth mean by invoking evil spirits to "unsex" her?


  She wants to rid herself of feminine weakness to be more ruthless
• What are the key events in Scene 6 of Macbeth?


  • Duncan arrives at Macbeth's castle
  • He praises the castle's pleasant atmosphere
  • Lady Macbeth greets Duncan warmly
  • Contrast between the peaceful scene and the Macbeths' intentions
• What are the key events in Scene 7 of Macbeth?


  • Macbeth's soliloquy about killing Duncan
  • His moral struggle with the decision
  • Lady Macbeth challenges his masculinity
  • She persuades him with a detailed plan
  • Macbeth ultimately agrees to the murder
• How does Lady Macbeth's character influence the plot of Macbeth?


  She drives Macbeth's ambition and pushes him towards murder
• What does Macbeth's soliloquy reveal about his character?


  It shows his moral reservations and inner turmoil
• What is the outcome of Macbeth's internal conflict by the end of Scene 7?


  He agrees to go through with the assassination
• What is the significance of the witches' meeting in a desolate place during a storm?

  It creates an ominous atmosphere and sets the tone for the play
• Who are the characters introduced in Scene 1 of Macbeth?

  The Three Witches