The Witches

Question 1

What do the witches say upon the heath?

Answer 1

Upon the heath/There to meet Macbeth

This quote sets the stage for the meeting between the witches and Macbeth.

Question 2

What is the famous line that reflects the theme of duality in the play?

Answer 2

Fair is foul and foul is fair,/ Hover through the fog and filthy air

This line emphasizes the blurred lines between good and evil.

Question 3

Who speaks the line ‘That look not like th’ inhabitants o’ th’ Earth And yet are on ‘t’?

Answer 3

Banquo

This quote illustrates Banquo’s skepticism about the witches.

Question 4

What does Hectate say about fate and security?

Answer 4

He shall spurn fate, scorn death…/And you all know, security,/Is mortals’ chiefest enemy

This highlights the theme of overconfidence leading to downfall.

Question 5

What chant do the witches use in Act 4?

Answer 5

double, double toil and trouble/Fire burn, and cauldron bubble

This chant is iconic and represents the supernatural elements of the play.

Question 6

What do the witches ask Macbeth in Act 4?

Answer 6

Say if th’ hadst rather hear it from our mouths Or from our masters

This indicates the witches’ manipulation of Macbeth and foreshadows his fate.

Question 7

What does Macbeth say about the power of man?

Answer 7

laugh to scorn/ The power of man, for none born of woman born/ Shall harm Macbeth

This reflects Macbeth’s growing arrogance and misunderstanding of the prophecies.

Question 8

What term does Macbeth use to describe the prophecies at the end of the play?

Answer 8

juggling fiends

This indicates Macbeth’s realization that he has been deceived by the witches.