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.