Act 1, Scene 3 Flashcards
What is some context for Act 1, Scene 3?
Being deeply religious in the Jacobean era, Shakespeares audience would not have found the idea of having your destiny or fate mapped out for you too ridiculous of an idea. Macbeth’s belief in the Witches’ prophecies shows his firm belief in the idea of fate, whereas bancquo seems much more skeptical.
What happens in Act 1, Scene 3?
The witches meet on the heath. One has been killing pigs. Another has been insulted by a sailor’s wife so they plot to cast a spell which will disrupt the sailor’s next sea journey to Aleppo. They hear Macbeth and Banquo approaching and cast a spell. The men encounter the witches ‘that look not like th’inhabitants o’th’earth’. The witches hail Macbeth firstly by his title Thane of Glamis, then as Thane of Cawdor and finally as ‘king hereafter!’ Banquo says there is no need to ‘fear things that sound so fair’, and asks the witches for his future. They predict that his children will be ‘kings, though thou be none’. Macbeth demands to know how their prediction about him can be true when the Thane of Cawdor is still alive but the witches vanish. Ross and Angus arrive to tell Macbeth that he has been given the title Thane of Cawdor by Duncan to thank him for his valiant efforts in the battle. Macbeth considers ‘this supernatural soliciting’. He realises that to become king, Duncan would have to die but he thinks this is a ‘horrid image’. Then he adds in an aside that ‘chance may crown me, without my stir’. Banquo and Macbeth decide to discuss the witches’ prophecies at a later time.
What is a quote that shows ambition, fate, violence, and manhood?
‘And oftentimes, to win us to our harm,
The instruments of darkness tell us truths,
Win us with honest trifles, to betray’s
In deepest consequence.’ - Banquo.
What is the direct translation of this quote?
This quote from Macbeth, spoken by Banquo, suggests that malevolent forces often use apparent truths to deceive and manipulate individuals, leading them into harm and betrayal.
What is the device used?
Irony. The speaker is highlighting the deceptive nature of the “instruments of darkness” by pointing out that they sometimes use truths to lead people towards harm.
What is some analysis?
In this quote, the speaker reflects on how the agents of evil often present truths to manipulate individuals. The irony lies in the fact that the very truths that are told with apparent honesty become the means through which harm and betrayal are achieved. This underscores the theme of deceit and the dangerous allure of seemingly honest advice or information.
What is this quotes’ link to theme?
The quote delves into the theme of ambition by highlighting how individuals, driven by their ambitions, can be deceived by dark forces that use truths to lead them astray. It speaks to the consequences of unchecked ambition and the vulnerability of individuals who seek power. Banquo is wary of the witches’ predictions and warns that even though their words may contain truths, there is a potential for harm and betrayal in the long run. This foreshadows the tragic events that unfold as the characters navigate the consequences of their actions.
What was Macbeth’s reaction to the witches?
- Inquisitive.
- Confused.
- Rushed: he almost started plotting with Banquo at the end of the scene.
- Naive: Macbeth is spellbound by the witches’ prophecies and accepts their words without question,
What was Banquo’s reaction to the witches?
- More skeptical and suspects foul play and seems to see the witches for what they really are.
- He shows much less extreme curiosity about his prophecies compared to Macbeth.
What were the witches prophecies?
- The witches make a number of predictions about Macbeth’s rising status.
- They also predict Banquo’s heirs shall be Kings.
- They appear devious and manipulative.
What is some evidence that the witches are evil?
‘So withered and so wild in their attire, that look not like the inhabitants o’th’earth’
[Alliteration emphasises that they don’t look like they should be there. They stand out - Looks from out of the earth.
- ‘Choppy finger’, ‘Skinny lips’, ‘Your beards’
[Deceiving looks - ambiguous features suggest that they are fictional- never seen anything like that before, loss for words with how to describe]
- ‘The earth bubbles’
[The witches = foreshadow the play, highlight their evil].
What quote shows Macbeths manhood?
‘Stay, you imperfect speakers. Tell me more.’
What is the device used in the quote?
Imperative language, as Macbeth issues a command to the witches, demanding them to stay and provide more information.
What is analysis of the quote?
The use of imperative language reflects Macbeth’s assertiveness and determination to take control of his fate. By commanding the witches to stay and reveal more, he exhibits a proactive and dominant stance, suggesting a willingness to confront the supernatural to fulfill his ambitions.
How does this quote link to manlihood?
The imperative language strengthens the link to the theme of manhood by emphasizing Macbeth’s assertive and authoritative demeanor. This aligns with traditional expectations associated with manhood during the play’s setting, portraying him as a character actively shaping his destiny.
What does manhood refer to?
Macbeth displaying regularly observed characteristics possessed by males. Has an increased sense of assertiveness and obligation to tell others what to do.
