Scene 1
What crime are Malcom and Donaldbain accused of?
They are accused of parricide for allegedly murdering their father, Duncan.
What does Macbeth tell Lady Macbeth when she asks him what his plans are?
He tells her that it's better if she doesn't know, and that when it's done she'll be happy with his decision.
What happens to Banquo and his son?
Banquo is killed by the murderers but his son Fleance survives and flees.
What do the Lords suspect Fleance of doing?
They suspect Fleance of killing his father.
Besides Banquo, who else does Macbeth want dead?
Banquo's son, Fleance.
What does Macbeth mean when he says "We have scorch'd the snake, not kill'd it."?
He means the threat to his position as king has not been fully eliminated.
Who misses the banquet and why?
Macduff refuses to go to the banquet because he is suspicious of Macbeth.
Who is Hecate and why is she upset?
Hecate is the goddess and leader of all witches. She is upset because the other witches gave Macbeth prophecies without telling her.
Why are the murderers so willing to do what Macbeth asks?
Macbeth manipulates them into thinking that Banquo is their enemy and the one who wronged them.
What does Lady Macbeth mean when she says "Nought’s had, all’s spent,/ where our desire is got without content. / ’Tis safer to be that which we destroy, / than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy." ?
She is saying that it is better to be killed than to be a killer who lives with fear and anxiety.
Why did a third murderer join the first two?
A third murderer joined the first two because Macbeth wanted to make sure that the job would be done properly.
What are witches planning on doing?
They are planning to play tricks on Macbeth with illusions to give him a false sense of security.
Which metaphors does Macbeth use to describe his position as king regarding his heirs?
"Fruitless crown" and "Barren Sceptre"
What does Macbeth mean when he says "Better be with the dead, / Whom we, to gain our peace, / have sent to peace, Than on the torture of the mind to lie / In restless ecstasy. Duncan is in his grave. / After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well."?
Like Lady Macbeth, he is saying that it's better to be dead than to be alive and riddled with anxiety and nightmares. He is also saying that because Duncan is dead, he is at peace.
What animal is a recurring symbol of treachery/betrayal?
A snake.
What information is revealed about Macduff?
It is revealed that Macduff is heading to England in hopes of allying with King Edward.