Macbeth- Assignment #1- Acts 1-3
Part 1- Response Questions: For this part of the assignment, please read Acts 1-3 in the play thus far and then respond to each of the questions in paragraph form. Make sure that you also reference a quote from the play to help support your understanding. For example, “Macbeth was thirsty for blood” (I.II, 6-14) That shows that the quote came from Act 1, Scene 2, lines 6-14. (15 Marks)
Act 1
1) Why does King Duncan have the Thane of of Cawdor executed? Do you thank that was a good decision by King Duncan? Defend your position.
King Duncan had the Thane of Cawdor executed because Cawdor is a trader. He will trade anything and there will always be a chance that he will once again trade the King. I am not a firm believer of harsh punishment. However, in this situation I do believe that the King has made a good decision. The King should not have any doubts about his people. If he ever does, I believe that he should go ahead and make them extinct.
2) What are the witches predictions and what is Macbeths reaction when the witches’ first prediction comes true?
The three witches have predicted that Macbeth will be the Thane of Glamis. “All hail, Macbeth! Hail to you, thane of Glamis!” (I.III,49) was what the first witch have predicted for Macbeth. The second witch have predicted “ All hail, Macbeth! Hail to you, thane of Cawdow!” (I.III,50) this saying that Macbeth will be the thane of Cawdow. And the last prediction from the third witch. “All hail, Macbeth, the future king!” (I.III,51) this means that he will be the future king. Macbeth was startled and seemed shocked by what the witches had said. Despite already being the thane of Glamis, he is also being called the thane of Cawdow. When the witches had left with no other information about his possible future, he was furious. “Stay, you imperfect speakers, tell me more...” (I.III,71) is the stanza that Macbeth has told the witches. However, the witches did not listen and...