Macbeth: Act 1 – Reasoning Q&A (20+ Questions)

Complete the following sentences by providing a brief reason. Do not repeat the question.

1. The witches' first appearance establishes a dark and ominous tone because __________

2. Macbeth's victory in battle earns him the praise of King Duncan because __________

3. The witches' prophecy that Macbeth will be Thane of Cawdor seems incredible because __________

4. Banquo warns Macbeth to be cautious about the witches' words because __________

5. The news that Macbeth has been named Thane of Cawdor shocks Macbeth because __________

6. Macbeth begins to consider murdering Duncan after hearing the prophecy because __________

7. Duncan's decision to name Malcolm as Prince of Cumberland troubles Macbeth because __________

8. Lady Macbeth worries that Macbeth is too full of "the milk of human kindness" because __________

9. Lady Macbeth calls upon evil spirits to "unsex" her because __________

10. Lady Macbeth suggests getting Duncan's guards drunk as part of their plan because __________

11. Lady Macbeth advises Macbeth to "look like the innocent flower but be the serpent under it" because __________

12. King Duncan's trust in his subjects is shown to be naive because __________

13. The witches vanish suddenly after Macbeth demands clarification because __________

14. Macbeth's ambition is described as growing from the witches' words because __________

15. Lady Macbeth takes control of the murder plan because __________

16. The imagery of blood throughout Act 1 is significant because __________

17. Banquo's caution contrasts with Macbeth's eagerness because __________

18. Lady Macbeth knows exactly how to manipulate Macbeth because __________

19. The prophecy that Banquo's descendants will be kings troubles Macbeth because __________

20. Macbeth cannot share his darkest thoughts with anyone except Lady Macbeth because __________

21. The witches choose to meet Macbeth on the heath after battle because __________

Answer Key

i) The witches appear during a storm surrounded by thunder and lightning, they speak in mysterious and chanting tones, and they plan an evil meeting that foreshadows chaos and danger to come.

ii) He has defeated the rebel Macdonwald in a savage and heroic manner, showing exceptional bravery, loyalty to the king, and military prowess that deserves royal recognition and reward.

iii) The prophecy seems to come true immediately when Ross announces the news, which is shocking because Macbeth already holds the title Thane of Glamis, and the second part of the prophecy—that he will be king—seems equally possible and terrifying.

iv) The witches represent forces of darkness and evil, and they may use truth strategically to manipulate people into committing sins and causing their own downfall, as evil often uses truth as bait.

v) Part of the witches' prophecy has come true in real time, making him wonder if the prophecy about becoming king will also come true, which fills him with hope and fear simultaneously.

vi) If the first two prophecies have already begun to come true, he believes he must take active steps to ensure the third prophecy (becoming king) happens, feeling that fate is pushing him toward murder.

vii) Malcolm's naming as Prince of Cumberland means the throne will pass to Duncan's son rather than to Macbeth, making the prophecy of his becoming king appear impossible unless Duncan dies.

viii) She knows Macbeth is ambitious and wants the crown, but he also has a conscience and moral values that will make him hesitate to commit murder without her pushing him to overcome his doubts.

ix) She wants to remove her feminine qualities and human compassion so she can commit the evil deed of murder without being troubled by guilt, remorse, or hesitation that might prevent action.

x) If Duncan's guards are drunk, they will be less able to defend the king, easier to overpower, and more vulnerable to being blamed for the murder when they awake confused and hung-over.