Macbeth - Macbeth's Character

Question 1

Assess the quote “Fair is Foul and Foul is Fair” (Scene 1, Act 1) - what does this say about Macbeth’s character?

Answer 1

The juxtaposition of fair and foul demonstrates how appearances can be deceiving - Macbeth seems loyal and faithful however betrays the king that he swore to protect

Question 2

Assess the quote “Brave Macbeth” (Scene 2, Act 1) - what does this say about Macbeth’s character and his development throughout the play?

Answer 2

Brave Macbeth implies that he was portrayed as brave and loyal to others, but faces a decline as he descends into tyranny

Question 3

Where in the play is “Stars hide your fires, let not light see my black and deep desires.” (Macbeth)

Answer 3

“Stars hide your fires, let not light see my black and deep desires” is from Scene 4, Act 1

Question 4

What does the quote “Stars hide your fires, let not light see my black and deep desires” infer?

Answer 4

“Stars hide your fires, let not light see my black and deep desires” infers that Macbeth is hiding his tyrannical ideas and passions. The contrast between light and dark highlights the difference between good and evil. This also shows Macbeth’s jealousy and anger as this is said when Malcolm is announced to become king

Question 5

Finish the quotes “I have no spur, to prick the sides of my intent, but __ __ __ __ __ __” (Scene 7, Act 1)

Answer 5

“I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, but only my vaulting ambition with overleaps itself” (Scene 7, Act 1)

Question 6

What does the quote “i have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, but only my vaulting ambition which overlaps itself” (Scene 7, Act 1) imply about Macbeth’s character?

Answer 6

“I have no spur to prick the sides of my intent, but only my vaulting ambition which overleaps itself” (Scene 7, Act 1) is an extended metaphor that compares Macbeth’s ambition to a wild horse, that is out of control and can leave him in an unknown uncontrollable position