Solilioquoy
What is Macbeth debating in his soliloquy?
Whether he should kill Duncan or not.
What does Macbeth compare ambition to?
A rider who jumps to high and falls
Why is Duncan’s trust in Macbeth ironic?
Because Macbeth wants to kill him while pretending to be loyal
How does Macbeth foreshadow his downfall?
He fears “deep damnation” for his actions, hinting at his later guilt and paranoia.
What does Macbeth say about the "poisoned chalice"?
It symbolizes consequences of his own evil actions returning to him.
How does Macbeth describe ambition?
As “vaulting ambition” that “o'erleaps itself and falls on the other.”
How does Macbeth use blood imagery?
He describes “bloody instructions” returning to “plague th’ inventor.”
How does Lady Macbeth’s plan rely on deception?
She tells Macbeth to “look like th' innocent flower, but be the serpent under ’t.
What does Lady Macbeth’s manipulation suggest about their future?
That she will continue to influence Macbeth, leading to more violence.
How does Lady Macbeth use clothing as a symbol?
She mocks Macbeth by saying he was “dressed” in hope but now acts like a coward.
What metaphor does Macbeth use for justice?
“This even-handed justice commends the ingredients of our poisoned chalice to our own lips.”
What natural image does Macbeth use to describe pity?
Like a naked newborn babe striding the blast.”
Why is Macbeth hesitant to kill Duncan?
Because Duncan is a good and just king, and Macbeth fears the consequences.
What does Macbeth’s hesitation suggest about his fate?
That his conscience will torment him even after committing murder.
How is the castle symbolic in this scene?
It represents both safety and danger—Duncan believes it is safe, but it is where he will be murdered.
What does Macbeth fear will happen if he kills Duncan?
That he will face "judgment here” and suffer consequences.
How does Lady Macbeth use imagery to manipulate Macbeth?
She questions his masculinity, calling him a “coward” and comparing him to “the poor cat i’ th’ adage.
How does Macbeth’s hospitality contrast with his true intentions?
He should “shut the door” against Duncan’s murderer, but instead, he is the murderer.
What consequence does Macbeth fear for killing Duncan?
That “Bloody instructions” will come back to haunt him.
What does "false face must hide what the false heart doth know" symbolize?
The theme of deception and appearance vs. reality.
How does Macbeth contrast Duncan’s virtues with his own actions?
He says Duncan "hath borne his faculties so meek” and is a great king, making his murder even more unjust.
What violent image does Lady Macbeth use about a baby?
She says she would have “plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dashed the brains out” if she had sworn to do so.
Why does the audience know more than Duncan in this scene?
Because we know Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s plan, but Duncan believes he is safe.
How does the idea of "false face" foreshadow later events?
Macbeth will continue to deceive others, leading to his eventual exposure and downfall.
How does Macbeth's language about night and darkness reinforce the theme of evil?
He calls on “darkness” to hide his crime, linking darkness with evil and treachery.