act 1

• Where do Macbeth and Banquo discover the three strange women?

  On a bleak Scottish moorland
• Who are Macbeth and Banquo in relation to King Duncan?

  They are two of King Duncan's generals
• What do the witches prophesy for Macbeth?

  That he will be promoted twice: to thane of Cawdor and king of Scotland
• What is the significance of the title 'thane of Cawdor'?

  It is a high rank bestowed by grateful kings
• What do the witches prophesy about Banquo?

  That Banquo's descendants will be kings, but he will not be promised any kingdom himself
• What do Macbeth and Banquo want after hearing the witches' prophecies?

  They want to hear more from the witches
• What title does King Duncan bestow upon Macbeth after the battle?

  Thane of Cawdor
• How does Macbeth's promotion relate to the witches' prophecy?

  The promotion seems to support the prophecy
• What does King Duncan propose to do that night?

  Make a brief visit to Macbeth's castle
• How does Lady Macbeth react to the news of the prophecy and Macbeth's new title?

  She vows to help him become king by any means necessary
• What are the key events that lead to Macbeth's ambition for power?

  • Encounter with the witches on the moorland
  • Prophecies of becoming thane of Cawdor and king
  • Banquo's descendants will be kings
  • Macbeth's promotion to thane of Cawdor by King Duncan
  • Lady Macbeth's vow to assist in his rise to power