Purpose and content of

Act I questions:1. Why does Shakespeare open the play by showing the witches? Why is it good for Macbeth not to appear first? A: To make the groundlings interested because it’s important to get them involved. 2. How does Duncan reward Macbeth for his bravery in defeating the rebels? Duncan announces it and then Macbeth finds it out; why is this order important? A: a) thane of cawdor- title and land. B) for the suspense, makes Macbeth believe the witches 3. Macbeth calls the day of the battle “foul and fair.” what do you think he means? A:It means bad and good. The bad is that the people died and the good is that they won the war. 4. When Macbeth is told of his new title, how does he and Banquo react? Why the difference in reactions? A:Macbeth reacts scornful of the witches and he fears the prediction bc one came true, now the rest will. While Banquo was surprised and he believed them. 5. Why does Macbeth call Malcolm “ a step on which he” must fall down or else o'erleap? Which of these alternatives do you expect Macbeth to choose and how might he do it? A: because now there’s someone who will be the next king and Macbeth is thinking, what will he do next? I think Macbeth will choose to get rid of Malcolm, he will kill him. 6. What does Lady Macbeth fear about her husband after she has read his letter? A: Macbeth is too kind and soft and he doesn’t have the wickedness to kill Duncan 7. Lady Macbeth tells her husband to “look like the innocent flower/ But be the serpent under it.” Explain what she means. A: Lady Macbeth wants Macbeth to put a welcoming face but in your mind remember your killing him. 8. What is the purpose and effect of Duncan and Banquo’s comments when they approach Macbeth’s castle? A: To get on his good side, Shakespeare wants you to know that they have a good relationship. 9. Why, in Macbeth’s opinion, is the murder of Duncan so wrong? A: because Duncan is honored and gave an award to Macbeth. 10. How does Lady Macbeth make sure that her husband murders Duncan? A: first she makes a plan. The plan was to embarrass Macbeth but he was backing down. So she then tells Macbeth he's not a real man and that he is full of the milk of human kindness. He got so offended and that's where it all starts.