Macbeth - The supernatural

Question 1

“When shall we three meet again / In______

Answer 1

thunder, lightning, or in rain?”

The First Witch (Act 1, Scene 1)

Analysis: The opening line of Macbeth immediately sets a dark and ominous tone. The witches, associated with the supernatural, suggest that their next meeting will occur under stormy, chaotic weather—an environment that reflects the turmoil and evil that will soon unfold in Scotland. The supernatural elements in Macbeth are often linked to disturbances in nature, and the weather here symbolizes the brewing conflict and moral corruption in the play.

Question 2

“All hail, Macbeth! hail to thee, Thane of_____

Answer 2

Glamis! / All hail, Macbeth! hail to thee, Thane of Cawdor! / All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter!”

The Three Witches (Act 1, Scene 3)

Analysis: The witches greet Macbeth with prophecies that will eventually lead him down a dark path of ambition, murder, and madness. The supernatural here seems to play a pivotal role in shaping Macbeth's fate. By telling him of his future kingship, they spark his desire for power and set off a chain of events that will lead to his downfall. The witches’ ability to foretell the future demonstrates their supernatural power, and Macbeth’s response to them shows how their influence will corrupt him.

Question 3

“Is this a dagger which_______

Answer 3

I see before me, / The handle toward my hand? Come, let me clutch thee.”

Macbeth (Act 2, Scene 1)

Analysis: Macbeth envisions a dagger floating in front of him just before he kills King Duncan. This supernatural vision leads him to commit the murder and represents his inner conflict and guilt. The dagger is a manifestation of Macbeth's ambition and desire, as well as his psychological state. The supernatural here blurs the lines between reality and illusion, showing how Macbeth is being drawn toward his fate through a combination of his own desires and external, supernatural influences.