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Name:_______________________
ACT II Questions
Answer the following questions in complete sentences.
1. In Scene I, Macbeth asks Banquo to meet him later for "some
words." What incentive does he offer Banquo? How does Banquo
reply?
2. Why, according to Lady Macbeth, was she unable to kill Duncan
herself? Which tasks related to the murder does she perform? What
does this inability to kill Duncan show about her character?
3. After Macbeth does kill Duncan, he goes temporarily insane, professing
"But wherefore could not I pronounce "Amen"?/ I had most need of
blessing, and 'Amen'/ Stuck in my throat." What does his reaction
indicate about his character? Why is he so concerned about this
inability to say "amen"?
4. In Scene 2, how does Macbeth respond to Lady Macbeth's suggestion
that he go wash the "filthy witness" from his hands?
5. Even though Lady Macbeth does not kill Duncan, she is culpable
because she made the plan, drugged the guards, and she did two
other things in this scene. What are they?
6. Macbeth's parting words to the gate in Act II, scene ii comment "Wake
Duncan with they knocking! I would thou couldst!" What does he
mean by this?
7. What is the purpose of the Porter in Act II, scene iii? His comic antics
seem out of place in a murderous drama.
English Literature
GAVS
Act II
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Name:_______________________
8. What reason does Macbeth give for killing Duncan's two guards?
9. What message do you think Lady Macbeth wants her fainting spell to
convey? What is her true motive for "fainting"?
10.
What action do Malcolm and Donalbain take to ensure their
safety?
11.
The prophecy of the witches now comes true as Act II comes to
a close. What is that prophecy, and how does this happen?
English Literature
GAVS
Act II