Macbeth Quotes Flashcards
Who is referred to as ‘brave Macbeth’?
‘brave Macbeth’ (1.2)
A description of Macbeth’s valor in battle.
What does it mean to ‘unseam him from the nave to th’chaps’?
To cut someone open from the navel to the jaw (1.2)
This phrase illustrates Macbeth’s brutal combat skills.
What does the Captain say about Fortune in relation to Macbeth’s steel?
Fortune, with his brandished steel, which smoked with bloody execution (1.2)
It highlights Macbeth’s decisive and violent actions in battle.
What is Macbeth referred to as in relation to valor?
‘Valour’s minion’ (1.2)
This indicates that Macbeth is a servant or follower of valor.
What does Macbeth mean when he says, ‘This supernatural soliciting/ Cannot be ill, cannot be good’?
He is conflicted about the witches’ prophecies (1.3)
This reflects his inner turmoil regarding fate and morality.
What does Macbeth express about the day he has seen?
‘So foul and fair a day I have not seen’ (1.3)
This paradox suggests confusion about the day’s events.
How does Lady Macbeth refer to Macbeth?
‘dearest partner of greatness’ (1.5)
This shows her ambition and partnership in his rise to power.
What does Macbeth declare about proceeding with their plans?
‘We will proceed no further in this business’ (1.7)
Indicates Macbeth’s hesitation and moral conflict regarding murder.
What do Macbeth’s virtues do according to the text?
Will plead like angels, trumpet-tongued against the deep damnation of (1.7)
This highlights his internal struggle with guilt.
What question does Macbeth ask himself in Act 2?
‘But wherefore could I not pronounce ‘Amen’?’ (2.2)
Reflects his guilt and alienation after committing murder.
What does Macbeth say about sleep after committing murder?
‘Glamis hath murdered sleep, and therefore Cawdor/ Shall sleep no more: Macbeth shall sleep no more’ (2.2)
Illustrates the psychological consequences of his actions.
What do Macbeth’s fears regarding Banquo reveal?
‘Our fears in Banquo/stick deep’ (3.1)
Indicates Macbeth’s paranoia and fear of losing power.
What does Macbeth mean by ‘fruitless crown’?
He feels he has a crown that brings him no satisfaction (3.1)
This symbolizes his dissatisfaction with kingship.
What does Macbeth say about the snake?
‘We have scorched the snake, not killed it’ (3.2)
This signifies that their problems are not yet resolved.
What does Macbeth mean by ‘blood will have blood’?
Violence leads to more violence (3.4)
Suggests the cycle of revenge and guilt.
What does Macbeth say about being ‘in blood’?
‘I am in blood/stepped in so far’ (3.4)
Indicates his deep entrenchment in his violent actions.
What does Macbeth tell Lady Macbeth regarding knowledge of their deeds?
‘Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck/Till thou applaud the deed’ (3.2)
Suggests his desire to shield her from the truth.
What does Macbeth demand from the witches?
‘answer me… answer me to what I ask you’ (4.1)
Reflects his desperation for control over his fate.
What does Macbeth resolve about his actions in Act 4?
‘The very firstlings of my heart shall be/ The firstlings of my hand’ (4.1)
Indicates a shift to impulsive decision-making.
What does Macbeth plan to do to Macduff’s castle?
‘The castle of Macduff I will surprise;/ Seize upon Fife; give to th’edge o’th’sword/ His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls’ (4.1)
This highlights his ruthless ambition and willingness to commit further violence.
What does Macbeth say about Lady Macbeth’s fate?
‘She would have died hereafter’ (5.5)
Reflects his resignation to fate and loss.
What does Macbeth claim about fear?
‘I have almost forgotten the taste of fears’ (5.5)
Suggests desensitization to violence and fear.
What does Macbeth say to Macduff in their confrontation?
‘Of all men else I have avoided thee. But get thee back. My soul is too much charged With blood of thine already’ (5.8)
Indicates his guilt and reluctance to confront Macduff.
What does Macbeth mean by ‘bear a charmèd life’?
‘bear a charmèd life’ (5.8)
Suggests he believes he is invincible due to the witches’ prophecies.
What does Macbeth conclude about the witches?
‘And be these juggling fiends no more believed’ (5.8)
Indicates his realization of deception and manipulation.
