macbeth

Question 1

Macbeth- “we will process no further in this business” (Act 1, Scene 7)


Answer 1

His language now mirrors Lady Macbeth’s suggesting a unison between the two. He uses the noun “business” to refer to Duncan’s murder, this euphemism is the same as his wife- suggests denial.

Question 2

Macbeth- “false face must hide what the false heart doth know” (Act 1, Scene 7)


Answer 2

Juxtaposition between “hide” and “know” shows how appearances and reality are prominent. Sounds like Lady Macbeth and mirrors her thoughts and behaviour. Parallels the serpent quote. The use of the adjective “false” implies that he knows he isn’t in line to have the crown.

Question 3

Macbeth: “We have scorched the snake, not killed it” (Act 3, Scene 2)


Answer 3

Macbeth tells Lady Macbeth that, by killing Duncan, they have not put the matter of the throne to rest. By scorching the snake, but not killing it, Macbeth means that they still have threats to face, even with Duncan out of the picture,