Complete the following questions after reading Acts II and III. Always answer in complete sentences. Some questions have more than one part; be sure to answer the question completely.

Act II, Scene I

1- As Macbeth and Banquo discuss the King’s visit and their encounter with the weird sisters, what does the reader detect about Banquo’s thoughts?

2- Analyze the “dagger” speech. In how many ways does Macbeth see the dagger? Is he becoming stronger or weaker in will and determination than he revealed himself in Act One?

Act II, Scene 2

3- Why does Lady Macbeth not commit the murder when she is in the room?

4- Macbeth, apparently troubled by the murder he has just committed, tell Lady Macbeth what he saw and heard. She tells him, “These deeds must not be thought.” Why?

5- In this scene, how does Lady Macbeth show herself to be stronger than her husband?

Act II, Scene 3

6-The Porter’s scene, or the “knocking at the gate,” is a much debated scene by scholars, but many agree it is the typical comic relief scene seen in Shakespeare’s play. What do you suppose the dramatic point of a comic relief scene is?

Act II, Scene 4

7- What events described by the Old Man and Ross show that supernatural forces are influencing events in Scotland?

8- Who are Malcolm and Donalbain? What do Malcolm and Donalbain decide to do? Why?

9- How has Macbeth changed as a result of the events in this act? Cite lines that illustrate these changes.

10- How is Macbeth’s claim that he will “sleep no more” foreshadowed by the witches in Act I.iii?

Act III, Scene 1

11- In his soliloquy, what suspicion and hope does Banquo reveal?

12- What is there in Banquo’s character that makes Macbeth uneasy?

13- For what reasons does Macbeth want Banquo murdered? What reasons does he give the murderers? What does the conversation with the murderers reveal about Macbeth?

Act II, Scene 2

14- What is the meaning of Macbeth’s opening speech in this scene?

15- In this scene, what is Macbeth’s state of mind?

Act III, Scene 3

16- What happens at the ambush?

Act III, Scene 4

17- One characteristic of Shakespeare’s style is his play on words. How is technique demonstrated in the murderer’s reply that Banquo is “safe” now?

18- Scene 4 is considered by many to be a turning point in the play. Explain why this might be considered the climax

19- What dramatic purpose is served by the appearance of Banquo’s ghost? How does Lady Macbeth react in this horrible scene? Compare her behavior with that of Macbeth.

Act III, Scene 5

20- Why is Hecate angry with her witches? What plans does she have for Macbeth?

Act III, Scene 6

21- Compare and contrast the murders of Banquo and Duncan. How does the murder of Banquo illustrate the changes that Macbeth has undergone

22- How does the relationship between Macbeth and his wife change after the death of Duncan Explain using details from Act III.