Macbeth Act 2 overview

Question 1

Act 2 Scene 1

Answer 1

Banquo discusses the night and it’s unnatural darkness. He has
dreamt about the Witches’ prophecies and has been tempted by them but has resisted,
when Macbeth tries to bribe him he resists again. Macbeth hallucinates and sees a
dagger, leading him to kill Duncan. Offstage, Duncan is murdered.

Question 2

Act 2 Scene 2

Answer 2

Lady Macbeth remarks at her ability in planning the murder and
drugging the guards. Macbeth returns from killing Duncan, feeling guilty and covered in
blood.

Question 3

Act 2 Scene 3

Answer 3

The porter, drunk, likens himself to a porter of hell. He describes sins
that mirror Macbeth’s actions. Macduff discovers that Duncan is dead, Macbeth and
Lady Macbeth fake their shock at this. Duncan’s sons, Malcolm and Donalbain, arrive
and are told their father has been killed, most likely by his guards. They flee to England
and Ireland in fear.

Question 4

Act 2 Scene 4

Answer 4

Ross and an old man discuss the recent events and reflect on the
reversal of the natural order. Macbeth is made king by the other lords.