Act 1 Scene 2 Flashcards
Summary on content of scene and main quotes that can be used in exams. May also contain sample exam questions that are essay style (optional to answer)
Outline what happens in this scene.
Duncan receives the news of Macbeth’s success on the battlefield. In lieu with what he heard, Duncan decides to give the title of ‘Thane of Cawdor’ to Macbeth.
What names does the characters in the scene give Macbeth?
“For brave Macbeth, well he deserves that name.”
“Worthy gentleman.”
When Ross arrives, what does he tell Duncan?
He tells him about “that most disloyal traitor…Thane of Cawdor…” and how he assisted the enemy until Macbeth, described here as “Bellona’s bridegroom” came and fought him.
What does Duncan then say in response?
He says that Ross needs to go and “with his former title greet Macbeth.” The scene then ends by Duncan declaring that “whaf he hath lost, noble Macbeth hath won.”
What is Shakespeare’s intention on getting Ross to say that “Bellona’s bridegroom” is Macbeth?
He makes a dark comparison between Macbeth as the husband of Bellona, who was the Roman goddess of war.
Is there any links to previous or future scenes in this scene?
When Duncan says “What he hath lost, noble Macbeth hath won.”, it refers to the witches’ plan in the previous scene, when they plan to meet Macbeth “when the battle’s lost and won.” (A - 1, S - 1)
