Act 2

Question 1

Act 2, Scene 1
“A heavy summons lies like lead upon me, / And yet I would not sleep”

Answer 1

• Banquo describes feeling the weight of sleep, comparing it to “lead” in this simile, but he resists rest. The simile reflects his unease, potentially caused by the witches’ prophecy.
• Context: Banquo’s unease could mirror the anxiety of the audience, as the supernatural elements (the witches) are seen as disturbing the natural order.
• Structure: Banquo’s brief exchange with Macbeth contrasts with Macbeth’s soliloquy. It provides a moment of calm before the tension in Macbeth’s inner conflict takes over.

Question 2

Act 2, Scene 1
“Is this dagger which I see before me, / The handle toward my hand”

Answer 2

• Macbeth’s famous soliloquy begins with a rhetorical question, immediately suggesting his uncertainty and hesitation. The “dagger” is a powerful symbol of violence, ambition, and guilt (symbolism).
• Structural: The soliloquy allows the audience direct access to Macbeth’s inner thoughts and conflict, a turning point as he moves closer to the act of murder.
• Context: Unsettling for a Jacobean audience, steeped in fears of witchcraft and demonic influence.

Question 3

Act 2, Scene 3
“Most sacrilegious murder hath broke ope / The Lord’s anointed temple, and stole thence / The life o’ the building!”

Answer 3

• Macduff uses a metaphor, comparing Duncan’s body to “the Lord’s anointed temple” and his life to “the life o’ the building”. The murder is described as
  “sacrilegious,” implying that killing the king is not just a crime but a sin against God. This reinforces the idea of the Divine Right of Kings, where the king is seen as God’s chosen representative on earth
• Religious language is used her to portray the King as God.

Question 4

Act 2, Scene 3
“Knock, knock, knock! Who’s there, I’ the name of Beelzebub?”

Answer 4

• The repetition of “knock, knock, knock” builds urgency and suspense, while the reference to “Beelzebub” (another name for the devil) enhances the dark and hellish atmosphere of the castle. The Porter’s doesn’t know the seriousness of the events which contrasts with the gravity of what has happened
• Context: Beelzebub, representing the devil, would evoke fear and fascination in Shakespeare’s audience, further emphasising the sinful act that has taken place inside the castle.
• Structure: The repetition of the knocking creates a rhythm that mirrors the increasing tension. The humorous tone contrasts sharply with the discovery of Duncan’s murder, amplifying the horror that follows. Could also be juxtaposition of tone to content.

Question 5

Act 2, Scene 2
“A foolish thought, to say a sorry sight.”

Answer 5

• Lady Macbeth dismisses Macbeth’s guilt, showing her practical and unfeeling nature. She downplays his emotional response, highlighting her belief in suppressing guilt and remorse.
• Theme - Power and Gender: Lady Macbeth demonstrates power over Macbeth, encouraging him to repress his emotions. This subversion of traditional gender roles is significant in the play.