Act III, scene I
1. What evidence is there that Banquo a) suspects Macbeth of the murder of Duncan? b) has begun wondering if he can make the prophesy come true? 2. By looking at Macbeth’s soliloquy (III.i.48-72), summarize his reasons for wanting Banquo dead. 3. How do the plans made for the second great crime (the murder of Banquo) differ from those made for the first one (the murder of Duncan)? 4. How does Macbeth convince the murderers to murder Banquo? (III.i.76-83, 92-108) 5. Why does Macbeth’s decide to have Fleance murdered? 6. How does the planning of Banquo’s murder compare with that of Duncan’s murder? What change in Macbeth’s character does this emphasize?
Act III, scene ii
7. Quote lines from this scene that show the torment of both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, even though they have attained their ambitions. 8. What change in the relationship between Macbeth and his wife is shown by the planning of Banquo’s murder? Who appears stronger and more in control? 9. Copy down and explain two metaphors from scene ii.
Act III, scene iii
10. In what respects can Fleance’s escape be seen as a ‘turning point’ for Macbeth?
Act III, scene iv
11. This scene marks the beginning of Macbeth’s downfall. List the various “defeats” suffered by Macbeth during this scene. 12. Consider the irony of the entrance of Banquo’s ghost. In previous scenes, what has foreshadowed Banquo’s appearance at the banquet? 13. If you were the director, would the ghost be visible to the audience or would it be, as Lady Macbeth suggests, a figment of Macbeth’s imagination? What are the advantages and disadvantages of making the ghost visible?
Act III, scene v
14. Few scholars believe that this scene was written by Shakespeare. Nevertheless, it does provide us with certain information concerning Macbeth’s fate. What does Hecate’s speech reveal?
Act III, scene vi
15. What evidence is there that would suggest that lines should be spoken sarcastically in this scene? 16. What information does the Lord reveal concerning Macduff and Macbeth? 17. Who do you think will be Macbeth’s next victim(s)? What evidence would suggest this?
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