Macbeth

Act 1
1. `Is the point of the first scene literally and in reference to the whole play?
The witches are deciding when they shall meet again. This scene sets the mood for the entire play, and introduces several major themes: the witches (supernatural influences in the play), the idea of fair being foul, and the stormy fate of Scotland. The main character, Macbeth, is also introduced by name.

2. What does Duncan call Macbeth when Macbeth defeats MacDonwald
Duncan calls Macbeth “cousin”. Since you were born into royalty, and the next king had to be related to the king, this suggests that Macbeth has a chance to become king. He was not closely related to the king so he was not close to taking over the throne, but if the kings sons were to die, then he would be next in line.

3. Who is sentenced to death?
The king sentenced the thane of a Cawdor do death because he betrayed him. The king first takes away his title and gives it to Macbeth.

4. What do the witches predict for Macbeth and for Banquo?
The witches predict that Macbeth will be the Thane of Cawdor, then king soon after. They also predict that Banquo’s son will be king but banquo wont.

5.   What news does Ross bring Macbeth?
The news Ross bring Macbeth is that the king has made Macbeth the new Thane of Cawdor.

6. What does Banquo say about the motives of the witches?
Banquo says that "Oft'times to win us harm the instruments of darkness tells us truths...to win us with honest trifles.. to betray in deepest consequence.." this means that people will sometime try to earn your trust with gifts and then backstab you when you trust them.

7. Malcolm describes the thane of Cawdor execution. What is Duncan’s reply?
Duncan said that “he had seen nothing of the betrayal in Cawdor's face, that he had considered him an absolutely trustworthy gentleman.”
8. Macbeth says that stars hide your fire, let not light see my black desires. What are Macbeth’s desires?
Macbeth’s desires are evil and he wishes...