Act 1 - Plot summary

Question 1

Scene 1

Answer 1

Three witches appear out of a storm. They make plans to meet after the battle to confront Macbeth.

Question 2

Scene 2

Answer 2

Macbeth and Banquo fought with great courage in recent battles. King Duncan of Scotland receives a report that the traitorous Thane of Cawdor has been defeated, and decides to give Cawdor’s title to Macbeth.

Question 3

Scene 3

Answer 3

The three witches prophesied that Macbeth will become Thane of Cawdor and King of Scotland, and that Banquo will have sons who are kings. Shortly after, Macbeth is indeed given the title Thane of Cawdor.

Question 4

Scene 4

Answer 4

Duncan welcomes Macbeth and Banquo and tells them that he plans to make Malcolm his heir to the throne. Macbeth realises he cannot become king as long as Malcolm is around.

Question 5

Scene 5

Answer 5

Lady Macbeth learns of the witches’ prophecies, and she worries Macbeth won’t take the steps necessary to make himself king. Duncan is coming to spend the night at the castle, so she plots Duncan’s death.

Question 6

Scene 6

Answer 6

Lady Macbeth welcomes Duncan to the castle

Question 7

Scene 7

Answer 7

Macbeth has second thoughts about murder King Duncan. Lady Macbeth berates (criticises) Macbeth for his cowardice, and convinces him to go through with the plan, which is to frame Duncan’s chamberlains for his murder