Macbeth Study Guide Questions

Reading Comprehension STUDY GUIDE QUESTIONS - Act I

Answer each question thoroughly and in complete sentences. Be sure each sentence is grammatically correct.

1. What is the point of the first scene literally and in reference to the whole play?

2. What does Duncan call Macbeth when he hears Macbeth has defeated Macdonwald?

3. Who is sentenced to death?

4. What do the witches predict in I.iii for Macbeth? For Banquo?

5. What news does Ross bring Macbeth?

6. Banquo, like Macbeth, is surprised that the witches have predicted Macbeth's new title. He is,

however, leery. What does he say about the motives of the "instruments of darkness"?

7. Malcolm describes Cawdor's last moments before execution. What is Duncan's reply?

8. Macbeth says, "Stars, hide your fires, Let not light see my black and deep desires." What are

Macbeth's desires?

9. After Lady Macbeth reads the letter, what does she tell us is her opinion of Macbeth, and how

does she plan to help him?

10. What is Lady Macbeth's "prayer" to the spirits after she learns Duncan is coming"?

11. What advice does Lady Macbeth give Macbeth when he arrives home?

12. What are Macbeth's arguments to himself against killing Duncan?

13. What arguments does Lady Macbeth use to convince Macbeth to commit the murder?

14. What is Lady Macbeth's plan?