CMLIT 153

Reading Questions

MacBeth, Acts I-II

1. Why does Duncan bestow the title of Thane of Cawdor upon MacBeth?

2. How is MacBeth described in battle?

3. What predictions do the Weird Sisters make to MacBeth and Banquo?

How do these two react to this information?

4. Describe Lady MacBeth. How does she influence her husband?

5. What is the plan that MacBeth is to carry out? Why does he hesitate?

6. "Is this a dagger which I see before me..." (Act 2, Sc.1 line 44): Explain what is happening in this scene.

7. Why did Lady MacBeth not kill Duncan herself when she had the chance?

8. How is Duncan's murder discovered? What happens to the two servants whom Lady MacBeth framed? What do Malcolm and Donalbain do?