Shakespeare's World
What country was King James I born in?
Scotland
What are the names of the two characters who first tell Macbeth that he is Thane of Cawdor?
Ross and Angus
What does Macbeth's letter to Lady Macbeth literally reveal?
He tells her he met three witches, he is Thane of Cawdor, and he will be king.
Which characters say: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair Hover through the fog and filthy air."
The three witches.
Why did King James I live in constant fear?
He was not a direct descendant of Queen Elizabeth, and therefore his rule was challenged. He constantly worried that someone would try to dethrone him.
Banquo
Why does Lady Macbeth ask the spirits to "unsex" her?
Lady Macbeth requests that the spirits make her more of a man so that she can compensate for Macbeth's unwillingness to perform the murder.
Who says: "No more that thane of Cawdor shall deceive Our bosom interest: go pronounce his present death, And with his former title greet Macbeth. "
King Duncan.
Macbeth was first printed in the First Folio in what year?
1623
Who is Malcolm and what is his title?
Duncan's eldest son, Prince of Cumberland.
Why does Lady Macbeth fear that Macbeth will not go through with their murder plot?
Who says: "My noble partner You greet with present grace and great prediction Of noble having and of royal hope, That he seems rapt withal. To me you speak not."
Banquo
What is the "curse of Macbeth"?
If the play is quoted, or if the play’s title is mentioned, in a theater, except during rehearsals, disaster strikes the company.
The witches have supernatural abilities, but they cannot directly harm people. Instead, they can impact nature, prophesize, and cause general harm.
Why does Macbeth struggle to commit to the murder plot?
As Duncan's host, he is responsible for ensuring his safety. Duncan also just recently awarded Macbeth AND Macbeth is worried about eternal judgement.
Who says: "I dare do all that may become a man; Who dares do more is none."
Macbeth
How long did the real Macbeth reign for?
17 years.
What does Duncan repeatedly mention in the opening scenes?
That the former Thane of Cawdor is a traitor and must be executed.
How does Lady Macbeth interact with Duncan in scene 1.6 and what does her behavior reveal about her character?
Lady Macbeth is extremely courteous to Duncan despite plotting to murder him. Her gracious behavior hides her murderous intentions.
Who says: "Was the hope drunk Wherein you dressed yourself? Hath it slept since? And wakes it now, to look so green and pale At what it did so freely?"
Lady Macbeth