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1 Review and Anticipate In Act II, Lady Macbeth drugs Duncan’s guards, enabling Macbeth to kill the king. Macbeth then kills the guards, too, so that he can more easily blame them for the king’s murder. Duncan’s sons, Malcolm and Donalbain, flee, afraid that they will be assassinated by a kinsman eager to claim the throne. Because they run away, some suspect them of killing their father. As the act closes, it seems that Macbeth will be named king. Act III begins with Macbeth on the throne—as the witches had predicted. All seems to be going well for him, but he feels threatened by Banquo. 1 2 Critical Viewing Scene i. Forres. The palace. After wielding a dagger like this against Duncan, can Macbeth expect to rule in peace? Explain. [Predict] [Enter BANQUO.] BANQUO. 5 3 10 Thou hast it now: King, Cawdor, Glamis, all, As the weird women promised, and I fear Thou play’dst most foully for ’t. Yet it was said It should not stand1 in thy posterity, But that myself should be the root and father Of many kings. If there come truth from them— As upon thee, Macbeth, their speeches shine— Why, by the verities on thee made good, May they not be my oracles as well And set me up in hope? But hush, no more! 2. Sennet trumpet call. If he had been forgotten, It had been as a gap in our great feast, And all-thing3 unbecoming. Tonight we hold a And I’ll request your presence. 3. all-thing altogether. supper, sir, 4. solemn ceremonious. 5. grave and prosperous weighty and profitable. 15 BANQUO. Let your Highness Command upon me, to the which my duties Are with a most indissoluble tie For ever knit. MACBETH. BANQUO. 20 MACBETH. Vocabulary Builder indissoluble (in« di säl« yØ bßl) adj. not able to be dissolved or undone Ride you this afternoon? Ay, my good lord. We should have else desired your good advice (Which still hath been both grave and prosperous5) Critical Viewing Possible response: Macbeth has begun his reign in blood and violence; he cannot expect to rule in peace. Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines LADY MACBETH. MACBETH. 2 3 Here’s our chief guest. solemn4 Act III marks a turning point in the action. Up until now, things have gone very much the way Macbeth had planned. However, his sense of insecurity leads him to fear Banquo and his offspring. When his plan to murder Banquo and his son is only partially successful, a series of events is set in motion, leading to Macbeth’s downfall. 1. stand continue. [Sennet2 sounded. Enter MACBETH as King, LADY MACBETH, LENNOX, ROSS, LORDS, and ATTENDANTS.] MACBETH. About the Selection 4 What does Banquo suspect about Macbeth? Macbeth, Act III, Scene i ■ 343 • Direct students’ attention to lines 1–10. Ask them to consider Banquo’s speech and to discuss what threat Banquo poses to Macbeth. Why might Banquo have kept the information about the witches to himself? Possible responses: Banquo poses a threat because if he tells what he knows, he might cast suspicion on Macbeth. He may have kept the information to himself to use to his advantage, or he may have been afraid that telling others might implicate him in the murder. After all, he was promised that his descendants would be kings. • In the lines that follow, Macbeth is cordial and invites Banquo to a feast. Banquo, in turn, pledges loyalty. Ask students if they think either is sincere. • In lines 18 and following, Macbeth questions Banquo about his afternoon ride, when and where he is going. Ask students why they think Macbeth might want to know this. Answer: Macbeth is worried about Banquo and wants to keep an eye on him. Some students may even suspect additional foul play. 4 Reading Check Answer: Banquo suspects that Macbeth was involved in foul play to bring about what the witches prophesied. 343 5 Critical Thinking In this day’s council; but we’ll take tomorrow. Is’t far you ride? Interpret • Have students look at lines 29–32. BANQUO. • Remind students that the term cousin in the Elizabethan period meant kinsman, not necessarily an actual cousin. • Then, ask them who are the “bloody cousins” referred to by Macbeth. What do we learn about these “cousins”? Answer: Duncan’s sons are the “bloody cousins,” because they are rumored to have plotted their father’s murder. We learn that they have reached England and Ireland and are telling “lies”—which, coming from the actual murderer, Macbeth, means they are probably telling the truth. 6 25 MACBETH. BANQUO. 6. Go not . . . better unless my horse goes faster than I expect. Fail not our feast. My lord, I will not. MACBETH. 30 5 35 We hear our bloody cousins are bestowed In England and in Ireland, not confessing Their cruel parricide, filling their hearers With strange invention.7 But of that tomorrow, When therewithal we shall have cause of state Craving us jointly.8 Hie you to horse. Adieu, Till you return at night. Goes Fleance with you? BANQUO. 7. invention lies. 8. cause . . . jointly matters of state demanding our joint attention. Ay, my good lord: our time does call upon ’s. MACBETH. Critical Thinking 40 Analyze • Review what the witches promised Macbeth and Banquo when they visited them in Act I. I wish your horses swift and sure of foot, And so I do commend you to their backs. Farewell. [Exit BANQUO.] Let every man be master of his time Till seven at night. To make society The sweeter welcome, we will keep ourself Till suppertime alone. While9 then, God be with you! 9. While until. [Exit LORDS and all but MACBETH and a SERVANT.] Sirrah,10 Answer: They promised that Macbeth would be king, and that Banquo’s heirs will be kings. 45 a word with you: attend those men Our pleasure? ATTENDANT. • Have students divide the soliloquy into two parts and describe the topics of each of the two parts. Answer: The first part of the soliloquy runs from lines 49 to 57. It reveals that Macbeth fears Banquo. The second part runs from the middle of line 57 through line 72. In this part, Macbeth reveals his resentment of the prophecy that Banquo’s descendants, not his own, will sit on the throne in the future. As far, my lord, as will fill up the time ’Twixt this and supper. Go not my horse the better,6 I must become a borrower of the night For a dark hour or twain. 10. Sirrah common address to an inferior. They are, my lord, without the palace gate. MACBETH. 50 6 55 60 Bring them before us. [Exit SERVANT.] To be thus11 is nothing, but12 to be safely thus— Our fears in Banquo stick deep, And in his royalty of nature reigns that Which would be feared. ’Tis much he dares; And, to13 that dauntless temper of his mind, He hath a wisdom that doth guide his valor To act in safety. There is none but he Whose being I do fear: and under him My genius is rebuked,14 as it is said Mark Antony’s was by Caesar. He chid15 the sisters, When first they put the name of King upon me, And bade them speak to him; then prophetlike They hailed him father to a line of kings. Upon my head they placed a fruitless crown And put a barren scepter in my gripe,16 11. thus king. 12. but unless. Vocabulary Builder dauntless (dônt« lis) adj. fearless; cannot be intimidated 13. to added to. 14. genius is rebuked guardian spirit is cowed. 15. chid scolded. 16. gripe grip. 344 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Plutarch Though he was also a mathematician, philosopher, world traveler, politician, educator, and priest of the Delphic oracle, the reputation of the Greek essayist and biographer, Plutarch (A.D. 46–c. 119) rested on his writing. Of all his works, the most important is Parallel Lives. This collection contains biographies of every important soldier, leader, and orator of ancient Rome and Greece. Plutarch’s Lives was translated into English in the 16th century. It became the story source for Shakespeare’s Roman history plays but also 344 influenced the development of his concept of the tragic hero. While the mention of Mark Antony and Caesar in Scene i, line 57, clearly connects with Plutarch’s reports of their lives, there are other elements that Plutarch contributed to Macbeth. In his Life of Caesar, he reports of strange phenomena at Caesar’s death (such as “noises heard in the night”), prophecies and omens, and Caesar’s ghost appearing to his murderers (which also occurs in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar). 7 65 70 17. filed defiled. 18. eternal jewel soul. 19. common . . . man the Devil. 20. champion me to th’ utterance Fight against me to the death. [Enter SERVANT and TWO MURDERERS.] Now go to the door, and stay there till we call. [Exit SERVANT.] 21. held . . . fortune kept you from good fortune. Was it not yesterday we spoke together? MURDERERS. 22. passed in probation reviewed the proofs. It was, so please your Highness. 75 MACBETH. 7 80 Well then, now Have you considered of my speeches? Know That it was he in the times past, which held you So under fortune,21 which you thought had been Our innocent self: this I made good to you In our last conference; passed in probation22 with you, How you were born in hand,23 how crossed, the instruments, Who wrought with them, and all things else that might To half a soul24 and to a notion25 crazed Say “Thus did Banquo.” FIRST MURDERER. 23. born in hand deceived. 24. half a soul halfwit. FIRST MURDERER. 8 Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines What does the first murderer mean in line 91 when he answers Macbeth, “We are men”? We are men, my liege. Ay, in the catalogue ye go for27 men; As hounds and greyhounds, mongrels, spaniels, curs, Shoughs, water-rugs28 and demi-wolves, are clept29 All by the name of dogs: the valued file30 Distinguishes the swift, the slow, the subtle, The housekeeper, the hunter, every one According to the gift which bounteous nature Hath in him closed,31 whereby he does receive Particular addition,32 from the bill 95 100 8 Reading Strategy • Ask students to think about the comment made by the first murderer in line 91. 29. clept called. 30. valued file classification by valuable traits. MACBETH. • Ask students why he might have told them this. Answer: He wanted to give them a reason to murder Banquo, to motivate them in a way that would make them feel that they would be solving a problem of their own. 26. gospeled ready to forgive. 28. Shoughs (shuks), water-rugs shaggy dogs, long-haired dogs. I did so; and went further, which is now Our point of second meeting. Do you find Your patience so predominant in your nature, That you can let this go? Are you so gospeled,26 To pray for this good man and for his issue, Whose heavy hand hath bowed you to the grave And beggared yours for ever? • Ask students what they can infer about what Macbeth has told these men. Answer: He appears to have told them that whatever miseries they have suffered can be blamed on Banquo. Reading Between the Lines 27. go for pass as. You made it known to us. • Direct students’ attention to Macbeth’s speech in lines 75–84. 25. notion mind. 85 MACBETH. 90 Critical Thinking Infer Thence to be wrenched with an unlineal hand, No son of mine succeeding. If ’t be so, For Banquo’s issue have I filed17 my mind; For them the gracious Duncan have I murdered; Put rancors in the vessel of my peace Only for them, and mine eternal jewel18 Given to the common enemy of man,19 To make them kings, the seeds of Banquo kings! Rather than so, come, fate, into the list, And champion me to th’ utterance!20 Who’s there? 31. closed enclosed. 32. addition distinction (to set it apart from other dogs). 9 Why does Macbeth fear Banquo? Macbeth, Act III, Scene i ■ 345 Support for Less Proficient Readers Vocabulary for English Learners Strategy for Advanced Readers Help students “read between the lines.” Read Banquo’s speech as a group. You might add items to Step 2: meeting the witches, the predictions, Duncan’s murder, Macbeth’s being made king. When you finish, analyze one of Macbeth’s speeches on the facing page. Make certain students understand the definitions given in the side notes. For example, on the facing page, the definition of dauntless includes the words fearless and intimidated, both of which might be new to English learners. Pronounce the words, and make certain students understand them in the story’s context. Allow students to read Act III independently. Have them note lines or speeches that are clues about what is going to happen. Then, have them note where in the play their suspicions are confirmed. Suggest that they also note events that remind them of clues they didn’t previously write down, even from other acts. • Have students reread Lady Macbeth’s views on manhood in Act I, Scene vii, lines 49–54 (p. 316). • Then, ask students the Reading Strategy question: What does the first murderer mean in line 91 when he answers Macbeth, “We are men”? Answer: The murderer means that they, as men, would not let such an outrage go unpunished, which echoes Lady Macbeth’s earlier views that it is manly to kill someone who stands in your way. 9 Reading Check Answer: Macbeth fears Banquo because Banquo knows about the prophecies and might be suspicious. Also, if Banquo’s descendants will be kings, Macbeth will have no heir on the throne. Both things are a threat to Macbeth. 345 10 Literary Analysis Conflict Reteach: Review with students their understanding of internal and external conflicts. Reread the definition of conflict on p. 342. Explain to students that a conflict can have both internal and external dimensions at the same time. 105 33. file ranks. 34. wear . . . life are sick as long as he lives. SECOND MURDERER. Monitor Progress: Ask students the Literary Analysis question: What conflict does Macbeth express in lines 116–126? Answer: The external conflicts are between Macbeth and Banquo and between Macbeth and public opinion. An internal conflict, though not directly stated, may be identified as existing between Macbeth and his fear. • Ask students if they believe the reasons Macbeth gives for not killing Banquo himself. What reasons might he really have for not wanting to kill Banquo himself? Possible responses: Macbeth’s reasons are partially true, because he would lose friends and allies. However, his having the power is doubtful, because none of the things Macbeth has said about Banquo are true. His real reason is that he wants to look innocent of the murder. He also may be concerned about getting injured if he attacks Banquo alone. That writes them all alike: and so of men. Now if you have a station in the file,33 Not i’ th’ worst rank of manhood, say ’t, And I will put that business in your bosoms Whose execution takes your enemy off, Grapples you to the heart and love of us, Who wear our health but sickly in his life,34 Which in his death were perfect. 110 I am one, my liege, Whom the vile blows and buffets of the world Hath so incensed that I am reckless what I do to spite the world. FIRST MURDERER. And I another So weary with disasters, tugged with fortune, That I would set35 my life on any chance, To mend it or be rid on ’t. 35. set risk. MACBETH. Both of you Know Banquo was your enemy. 115 BOTH MURDERERS. True, my lord. So is he mine, and in such bloody distance36 That every minute of his being thrusts Against my near’st of life:37 and though I could With barefaced power sweep him from my sight And bid my will avouch38 it, yet I must not, For certain friends that are both his and mine, Whose loves I may not drop, but wail his fall39 Who I myself struck down: and thence it is That I to your assistance do make love, Masking the business from the common eye For sundry weighty reasons. MACBETH. 10 120 125 SECOND MURDERER. We shall, my lord, Perform what you command us. FIRST MURDERER. 36. distance disagreement. 37. near’st of life most vital parts. 38. avouch justify. 39. wail his fall (I must) bewail his death. Literary Analysis Conflict What conflict does Macbeth express in lines 116–126? Though our lives— MACBETH. 11 Critical Thinking Analyze 130 • Direct students’ attention to lines 134–139. • Point out that in this passage, Macbeth refers to Banquo’s son, Fleance, almost as if he were an afterthought. Ask students how important Fleance’s death is to Macbeth and why. Answer: Fleance’s death is very important. The witches said that Banquo would father kings. While Banquo’s death is necessary to make Macbeth feel safe, Fleance’s death is necessary if Macbeth wants to have his own sons inherit the throne. • Ask students in which speech Macbeth expressed his reasons for wishing to end Banquo’s line. Answer: lines 57–72 of this scene. 346 11 135 Your spirits shine through you. Within this hour at most I will advise you where to plant yourselves, Acquaint you with the perfect spy o’ th’ time, The moment on ’t;40 for ’t must be done tonight, And something41 from the palace; always thought42 That I require a clearness:43 and with him— To leave no rubs44 nor botches in the work— Fleance his son, that keeps him company, Whose absence is no less material to me Than is his father’s, must embrace the fate 346 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) 40. the perfect . . . on’t exact information of the exact time. 41. something some distance. 42. thought remembered. 43. clearness freedom from suspicion. 44. rubs flaws. 12 Of that dark hour. Resolve yourselves I’ll come to you anon. MURDERERS. apart:45 45. Resolve yourselves apart Make your own decision. We are resolved, my lord. I’ll call upon you straight.46 Abide within. It is concluded: Banquo, thy soul’s flight, If it find heaven, must find it out tonight. 140 MACBETH. 46. straight immediately. [Exit.] Scene ii. The palace. [Enter MACBETH’S LADY and a SERVANT.] LADY MACBETH. SERVANT. LADY MACBETH. Say to the King, I would attend his leisure For a few words. Madam, I will. [Exit.] Reading Strategy LADY MACBETH. 12 5 Nought’s had, all’s spent, Where our desire is got without content: ’Tis safer to be that which we destroy Than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy. Reading Between the Lines In Scene ii, lines 4–7, what has Lady Macbeth realized about her actions? [Enter MACBETH.] 10 How now, my lord! Why do you keep alone, Of sorriest fancies your companions making, Using those thoughts which should indeed have died With them they think on? Things without all remedy Should be without regard: what’s done is done. We have scotched1 the snake, not killed it: She’ll close2 and be herself, whilst our poor malice Remains in danger of her former tooth.3 But let the frame of things disjoint,4 both the worlds5 suffer, Ere we will eat our meal in fear, and sleep In the affliction of these terrible dreams That shake us nightly: better be with the dead, Whom we, to gain our peace, have sent to peace, Than on the torture of the mind to lie In restless ecstasy.6 Duncan is in his grave; After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well. Treason has done his worst: nor steel, nor poison, Malice domestic, foreign levy,7 nothing, Can touch him further. MACBETH. 15 13 20 25 Come on. Gentle my lord, sleek o’er your rugged looks; Be bright and jovial among your guests tonight. 1. scotched wounded. 2. close heal. 3. in . . . tooth in as much danger as before. 4. frame of things disjoint universe collapse. 5. both the worlds heaven and earth. 6. ecstasy frenzy. 7. Malice . . . levy civil and foreign war. LADY MACBETH. MACBETH. So shall I, love; and so, I pray, be you: • Ask students the Reading Strategy question: In Scene ii, lines 4–7, what has Lady Macbeth realized about her actions? Answer: Lady Macbeth is realizing that they have paid a very high price for desires that have left them discontented and worried. • Point out that her feelings reflect something of the uncertainty that Macbeth is feeling, but with a difference. She is beginning to sound doubtful about their actions. Is Banquo gone from court? Ay, madam, but returns again tonight. SERVANT. Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines 14 What does Macbeth ask the murderers to do? Macbeth, Act III, Scene ii ■ 347 Strategy for Special Needs Students Strategy for Gifted/Talented Students To help students visualize the building conflict in the play, list the main characters on the board. Then discuss the conflicts. You may wish to create an additional conflict chart on the board, adding to it as Macbeth runs afoul of additional characters. Discuss the nature of each conflict. Point out how Macbeth’s solutions always create both more internal conflict for himself and additional external conflicts. Ask students to create a “one-man show,” in which the story thus far is told from Macbeth’s viewpoint. Have them note his thoughts about the witches, about his wife’s speeches, about the murder, about Banquo. They may lift speeches from the play, but encourage them to add their own material. Tell students that they need to have only a page or two. Ask them to do a dramatic reading of their creations. • Discuss with students why they think her four lines might be rhymed, when rhyme is normally saved for the end of a scene. Possible response: It might reflect a turning point for Lady Macbeth. • Explain that, in showing uncertainty, she has now changed places with Macbeth. He was doubtful before Duncan’s murder, now she is. We already know more than Lady Macbeth does—that Macbeth has ordered the murder of Banquo and Fleance. We see in the speeches that make up the rest of the scene that Macbeth is now the one in charge and determined to work evilly. 13 Critical Thinking Analyze • Direct students’ attention to lines 13–26. • Point out that Shakespeare often makes use of the comparison between sleep and death. It was a relatively common comparison of biblical origin. However, Shakespeare uses it masterfully as a thread in the play. Remind students of the speech in Act II, Scene ii, when Macbeth says “Sleep no more! Macbeth has murdered sleep.” • Ask students who Macbeth feels is sleeping better than he is in this passage. Answer: He says that murdered Duncan sleeps better than he does. 14 Reading Check Answer: Macbeth asks the murderers to kill Banquo and his son, Fleance. 347 15 Humanities Mrs. Siddons as Lady Macbeth by G. H. Harlow 16 15 The actress depicted in this painting is Sarah Siddons (1755–1831), one of the greatest English actresses of her time. She came from a family of traveling actors and began acting as a child. She played the part of Lady Macbeth early in her career and performed the role at London’s Drury Lane theater for the first time in 1785, terrifying audiences with her vivid portrayal of the famous character. Critical Viewing This artist depicted actress Sarah Siddons (1755–1831) playing Lady Macbeth. How does Mrs. Siddons’s body language suggest the same inner conflict as do lines 4–7 in Act III, ii? [Connect] Use these questions for discussion: 2. Ask students how this portrait of Lady Macbeth compares with the ones on pp. 319 and 336. Possible responses: Most students will say that this portrait portrays Lady Macbeth as quieter, meeker, and more dainty than the other portraits, in which she’s depicted as larger than life, vibrant, and wild. 16 30 17 Critical Viewing Answer: The clasped hands and sad expression suggest the insecurity and unhappiness in lines 4–7 of Scene ii. 17 Mrs. Siddons as Lady Macbeth, G. H. Harlow, Garrick Club, London 1. How does Harlow portray Sarah Siddons as Lady Macbeth? Answer: Harlow portrays Lady Macbeth in a timid posture. She is surrounded by darkness. She looks more fearful and demure than sinister. Her white robe gives her an angelic, or perhaps ghostly, appearance. 35 LADY MACBETH. O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife! Thou know’st that Banquo, and his Fleance, lives. LADY MACBETH. Conflict and Irony • Have students discuss and answer the Literary Analysis question: What is ironic about Macbeth’s idea about disguising the couple’s real conflict with Banquo? Answer: It is ironic that Macbeth is telling Lady Macbeth that they need to disguise their feelings, because he is in the process of having Banquo murdered. 348 You must leave this. MACBETH. Literary Analysis • Remind students that dramatic irony occurs when the words or actions of a character take on a meaning different from the one the character intends. Let your remembrance apply to Banquo; Present him eminence,8 both with eye and tongue: Unsafe the while, that we must lave9 Our honors in these flattering streams And make our faces vizards10 to our hearts, Disguising what they are. Conflict and Irony What is ironic about Macbeth’s idea about disguising the couple’s real conflict with Banquo (Scene ii, lines 30–35)? 8. Present him eminence Honor him. 9. Unsafe . . . lave We are unsafe as long as we have to wash. 10. vizards (viz« ßrdz) masks 11. nature’s . . . eterne Nature’s lease is not eternal. But in them nature’s copy’s not eterne.11 MACBETH. 40 Literary Analysis There’s comfort yet; they are assailable. Then be thou jocund. Ere the bat hath flown His cloistered flight, ere to black Hecate’s summons The shard-borne12 beetle with his drowsy hums 348 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Vocabulary Builder jocund (jäk« ßnd) adj. cheerful; jovial 12. shard-borne borne on scaly wings. 18 Hath rung night’s yawning peal, there shall be done A deed of dreadful note. LADY MACBETH. • Have students read lines 39–56. What ’s to be done? Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck,13 Till thou applaud the deed. Come, seeling14 night, Scarf up15 the tender eye of pitiful day, And with thy bloody and invisible hand Cancel and tear to pieces that great bond16 Which keeps me pale! Light thickens, and the crow Makes wing to th’ rooky17 wood. Good things of day begin to droop and drowse, Whiles night’s black agents to their preys do rouse. Thou marvel’st at my words: but hold thee still; Things bad begun make strong themselves by ill: So, prithee, go with me. 45 MACBETH. 18 50 55 13. chuck term of endearment. 14. seeling eye-closing. Falconers sometimes sewed a hawk’s eyes closed in order to train it. 15. Scarf up blindfold. 16. great bond between Banquo and fate. 17. rooky full of rooks, or crows. [Exit.] [Enter THREE MURDERERS.] But who did bid thee join with us? THIRD MURDERER. 19 Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines To what specific action do you think Macbeth is indirectly referring in lines 45–56? Scene iii. Near the palace. FIRST MURDERER. Macbeth. SECOND MURDERER. He needs not our mistrust; since he delivers Our offices1 and what we have to do To the direction just.2 2. direction just exact detail. BANQUO. Hark! I hear horses. [Within] Give us a light there, ho! Then ’tis he. The rest That are within the note of expectation3 Already are i’ th’ court. 3. within . . . expectation on the list of expected guests. His horses go about.4 FIRST MURDERER. Almost a mile: but he does usually— So all men do—from hence to th’ palace gate Make it their walk. 4. His . . . about His horses have been taken to the stable. THIRD MURDERER. 20 [Enter BANQUO and FLEANCE, with a torch] SECOND MURDERER. A light, a light! THIRD MURDERER. ’Tis he. 19 Critical Thinking • Direct students’ attention to the entrance of the three murderers at the beginning of scene iii. SECOND MURDERER. 10 • Ask students why they think Macbeth might have chosen to keep his plans for Banquo’s murder from Lady Macbeth. Possible responses: He may feel that she would give him away at the banquet that night. He might not trust anyone at this point. Perhaps he wants to impress her by carrying out this act without urging from her. Maybe he fears that she is losing her “nerve.” Speculate Then stand with us. The west yet glimmers with some streaks of day. Now spurs the lated traveler apace To gain the timely inn, and near approaches The subject of our watch. THIRD MURDERER. Monitor Progress: Then, ask students the Reading Strategy question: To what specific action do you think Macbeth is indirectly referring in lines 45–56? Answer: Macbeth is referring to his plot to have Banquo and Fleance killed. 1. offices duties. FIRST MURDERER. 5 Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines What does Macbeth tell Lady Macbeth and what does he hold back from her? Macbeth, Act III, Scene iii ■ 349 Support for Special Needs Students Support for Less Proficient Readers Support for English Learners To help students stay involved in the story, review the events thus far, briefly for Acts I and II (witches, murder) and with more detail for Act III. To help students hear sentence breaks and the meaning contributed by oral interpretation, have them read along with Listening to Literature Audio CDs. To help students gain more experience in using the skills needed for understanding the text, have them complete the Reading Between the Lines or Conflict exercises in Unit 2 Resources for Act III of Macbeth. You may wish to have students work with partners or individually with teacher guidance. Review the story to this point, to make certain students understand what they are reading. Take time to review words or sentence structure that is confusing. Use the Listening to Literature Audio CDs, so students can hear words pronounced. Have them read along, to connect sounds with printed words. • Ask students if they were surprised by the appearance of a third murderer. Possible responses: Students may say that they are surprised, but some may say that they feel it is in keeping with Macbeth’s actions so far. • Then, ask students why they think Macbeth sent a third murderer. Possible responses: He may not have trusted the first two. He might have thought the others weren’t strong enough to take on Banquo, who is a great soldier. • Tell students that the identity of the third murderer has been the subject of debate among scholars for centuries. Some suggest that it might be a messenger from the witches, someone sent by Macbeth, or even Macbeth himself in disguise. Whoever Shakespeare had in mind, the third murderer works primarily as a plot device to show Macbeth’s growing fear and mistrust. 20 Reading Check Answer: Macbeth tells Lady Macbeth that something will happen to Fleance and Banquo, but he doesn’t reveal that he has plotted with murderers to have them killed. 349 21 Literary Analysis 15 FIRST MURDERER. Conflict • Have students provide a review of the events of scene iii. Answer: A mystery murderer has joined the two hired to kill Banquo. Banquo and his son approach on horseback but dismount and walk the rest of the way to the castle. The three murderers set on them. Fleance escapes and Banquo is killed. BANQUO. • Tell students that many scholars consider the climax of the play to occur with the stage directions “Exit Fleance.” Ask students why Fleance’s escape is important to the drama. Answer: The escape is important because it means that Macbeth still has an enemy to reckon with and the witches’ prophecy about Banquo’s heirs can still come true. It is the first time that one of Macbeth’s plans has gone wrong. It also means someone has lived to tell of an attempted murder, which might lead people to doubt the original story about Duncan’s murder—especially because Banquo had probably told Fleance about the prophecies and his concerns. • Tell students that, though some scholars feel that Fleance’s exit is the climax, others believe the climax is in line 21, when Macbeth learns that Fleance has escaped. You may wish to have students discuss in class which event they feel is more climactic. 350 It will be rain tonight. FIRST MURDERER. Let it come down. [They set upon BANQUO.] BANQUO. O, treachery! Fly, good Fleance, fly, fly, fly! [Exit FLEANCE.] Thou mayst revenge. O slave! [Dies.] 21 THIRD MURDERER. Who did strike out the light? Was’t not the way?5 FIRST MURDERER. • Remind students that Banquo is a great warrior, and it is likely that his son, who is probably a teenager, is also skilled in battle. So, it is likely that Fleance could escape the fight. • Ask students why Fleance’s escape creates an external conflict for Macbeth. Answer: Macbeth had hoped to cheat fate. He had hoped that, though the witches’ predictions came true about him, he could keep them from coming true about Banquo and the promised line of kings to come from Banquo. Stand to ’t 20 THIRD MURDERER. There’s but one down; the son is fled. SECOND MURDERER. FIRST MURDERER. 5. way thing to do. We have lost best half of our affair. Well, let ’s away and say how much is done. [Exit.] Scene iv. The palace. [Banquet prepared. Enter MACBETH, LADY MACBETH, ROSS, LENNOX, LORDS, and ATTENDANTS.] You know your own degrees;1 sit down: At first and last, the hearty welcome. MACBETH. LORDS. Thanks to your Majesty. Ourself will mingle with society2 And play the humble host. Our hostess keeps her state,3 but in best time We will require4 her welcome. MACBETH. 5 1. degrees ranks. At state banquets guests were seated according to rank. LADY MACBETH. Pronounce it for me, sir, to all our friends, For my heart speaks they are welcome. 2. society company. 3. keeps her state remains seated on her throne. 4. require request. [Enter FIRST MURDERER.] 10 MACBETH. See, they encounter thee with their hearts’ thanks. Both sides are even: here I’ll sit i’ th’ midst: Be large in mirth; anon we’ll drink a measure5 The table round. [Goes to MURDERER] There’s blood upon thy face. MURDERER. ’Tis Banquo’s then. ’Tis better thee without than he within.6 Is he dispatched? 15 MACBETH. MURDERER. 5. measure toast. 6. thee . . . within you outside than he inside. My lord, his throat is cut; that I did for him. MACBETH. 20 Thou art the best o’ th’ cutthroats. Yet he’s good that did the like for Fleance; If thou didst it, thou art the nonpareil.7 7. nonpareil without equal. 350 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Ghosts When Shakespeare included ghosts in his plays, he knew that many people believed in restless spirits who returned to Earth. Some people in Western culture believe that the ghosts of murdererd people appear to seek retribution (an idea at least 1,600 years old at the time Shakespeare picked it up). Though the idea of ghosts or restless spirits is fairly universal, different groups have different views. Some groups of Native Americans and Pacific Islanders believe that ghosts return to Earth for both good and evil purposes. Some members of these cultures perform ceremonies to call forth the ghosts and ask for their help in earthly matters. In Australia, traditional Aboriginal groups would leave a campsite when someone died, to avoid the person’s spirits. In Asia, some people honor the spirits of dead ancestors, which are believed to bring good fortune to families who show proper respect. In Western cultures, some people are afraid of ghosts, while others are fascinated. 22 MURDERER. Most royal sir, Fleance is ’scaped. MACBETH. 25 [Aside] Then comes my fit again: I had else been perfect, Whole as the marble, founded as the rock, As broad and general as the casing8 air: But now I am cabined, cribbed, confined, bound in To saucy9 doubts and fears.—But Banquo’s safe? 8. as . . . casing as unrestrained as the surrounding. 9. saucy insolent. MURDERER. Ay, my good lord: safe in a ditch he bides, With twenty trenchèd10 gashes on his head, The least a death to nature.11 10. trenchèd trenchlike. 11. nature natural life. MACBETH. 30 Thanks for that. [Aside] There the grown serpent lies; the worm that’s fled Hath nature that in time will venom breed, No teeth for th’ present. Get thee gone. Tomorrow We’ll hear ourselves12 again. [Exit MURDERER.] 22 My royal lord, You do not give the cheer.13 The feast is sold That is not often vouched, while ’tis a-making, ’Tis given with welcome.14 To feed were best at home; From thence, the sauce to meat is ceremony;15 Meeting were bare without it. 13. give the cheer make the guests feel welcome. 15. From . . . ceremony Ceremony adds a pleasant flavor to the food. [Enter the GHOST of BANQUO and sits in MACBETH’S place.] 16. our . . . roofed the most honorable men in the country under one roof. MACBETH. Sweet remembrancer! Now good digestion wait on appetite, And health on both! 40 LENNOX. 12. hear ourselves talk it over. 14. The feast . . . welcome The feast at which the host fails to make the guests feel welcome while the food is being prepared is no more than a bought dinner. LADY MACBETH. 35 Literary Analysis Dramatic Irony May’t please your Highness sit. 24 Here had we now our country’s honor roofed,16 Were the graced person of our Banquo present— MACBETH. What do the murderers fail to do? 23 Cultural Connection Stagecraft at the Globe It took some sophisticated Elizabethan theatrics to manage entrances and exits such as those of Banquo’s ghost. (Macbeth reacts to the ghost in this picture.) In the farthest reaches of the Globe theater’s stage was a small area called the rear stage, which was open to the audience but enclosed by a wall at the back and cloth hangings on the sides. A trapdoor in the floor of the rear stage was the means by which Banquo’s ghost made an entrance. The trapdoor operated silently, and it was not completely visible to the audience. • Explain that this scene contains asides within asides. Macbeth is obviously off to the side talking to the blood-soaked murderers, because no one else sees them (their appearance would certainly have raised questions). Within this side conversation, Macbeth has asides directed to the audience. • Tell students that the word worm in line 30 had a different meaning in Shakespeare’s day. Then, it was often used as another word for snake. Ask students if lines 30–33 remind them of anything else Macbeth has said recently about snakes. Answer: In Scene ii, lines 13–15, Macbeth speaks of danger in general as being a snake and says that killing Duncan has wounded the snake but not killed it. Killing Banquo and Fleance was a way to remove that danger. • Ask students to identify the dramatic irony in Macbeth’s speech as he converses with his guests. Answer: In lines 41–42, Macbeth says that everything would be perfect if Banquo were there. In reality, he has done everything possible to ensure that Banquo will not be there—he has had Banquo murdered. 23 Literature in Context Cultural Connection Macbeth is not the only play that needed a trapdoor for a ghost. Another famous apparition was “Great Caesar’s ghost” in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. In fact, astonishing entrances were included in most writers’ works— special effects have always been popular. What other characters in Macbeth might have used a trapdoor for exits or entrances? Macbeth, Act III, Scene iv ■ 351 Enrichment for Gifted/Talented Students Enrichment for Advanced Readers Explain that Shakespeare’s plays have provided inspiration to many artists over the centuries. Some of the best-known works inspired by Macbeth are included in the Student Edition. Have students review these paintings. Students may also wish to find other images by looking at other versions of this play. Then, encourage students to choose a setting, character, or event from Macbeth and capture it artistically. Tell students that, quite obviously, special effects have changed a lot over the centuries. Movies depend on computers and other technologies to create effects. However, though theater effects are now more sophisticated, they still depend on trapdoors for surprise entries. Have students study the current state-of-the-art in special effects, either for theaters or for movies. Alternatively, they may wish to compare how the same effect would be created on film versus stage. Have students share their discoveries with the class. Connect to the Literature Ask students what other supernatural characters appear in Macbeth. Then, ask the Connect to the Literature question. Answer: The three witches might have used a trapdoor. 24 Reading Check Answer: The murderers fail to kill Fleance. 351 25 Reading Strategy Who may I rather challenge for unkindness Than pity for mischance!17 Reading Between the Lines • After students have read scene iv, ask them how it is consistent with the play thus far. Answer: Macbeth has seen floating daggers, and Duncan’s death was accompanied by strange events, so a ghost fits right in. ROSS. 45 MACBETH. LENNOX. • Remind students of the scene in which Macbeth saw the “air-drawn dagger” of which Lady Macbeth speaks (Act II, scene i, lines 33–47). • Ask students what Macbeth’s comments in lines 76–84 indicate about his view of murder. Answer: Macbeth seems to view murder as not human or civilized, but not particularly evil. His comments indicate that he is more unnerved by seeing ghosts than he is concerned about the immorality of his actions. 26 Literary Analysis Conflict Reteach: Remind students that an external conflict is a struggle between two characters or groups and an internal conflict is a struggle within a character. Monitor Progress: Ask the Literary Analysis question: How does the incident with Banquo’s ghost convey Macbeth’s inner conflict? Answer: The ghost appears when Macbeth mentions Banquo, indicating that he may be feeling guilty about Banquo’s death, or at least worried and fearful of consequences. Macbeth’s shock at the sight of the ghost reveals his agitation—both about the actions he has taken and the course of future events. 352 LENNOX. The table’s full. Reading Strategy Here is a place reserved, sir. MACBETH. • Macbeth is very agitated. Note that, in lines 22–26, after learning of Fleance’s escape, he says “Then comes my fit again” and goes on to describe how he is again the prisoner of his fears. • Ask the Reading Strategy question: How might you connect Macbeth’s agitation with his knowledge that Fleance has escaped? Answer: Macbeth is concerned about the power the witches predicted for Fleance and is upset that his latest murder plot was not successful and might, therefore, be discovered. His absence, sir, Lays blame upon his promise. Please ’t your Highness To grace us with your royal company? Where? Here, my good lord. What is ’t that moves your Highness? MACBETH. Which of you have done this? 50 LORDS. What, my good lord? Literary Analysis ROSS. Conflict How does the incident with Banquo’s ghost convey Macbeth’s inner conflict? Gentlemen, rise, his Highness is not well. LADY MACBETH. 25 Reading Between the Lines How might you connect Macbeth’s agitation with his knowledge that Fleance has escaped? MACBETH. Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake Thy gory locks at me. 55 17. Who . . . mischance whom I hope I may reproach for being absent due to discourtesy rather than pity because he has had an accident. Sit, worthy friends. My lord is often thus, And hath been from his youth. Pray you, keep seat. The fit is momentary; upon a thought18 He will again be well. If much you note him, You shall offend him and extend his passion.19 Feed, and regard him not.—Are you a man? 18. upon a thought in a moment. 19. passion suffering. 60 MACBETH. Ay, and a bold one, that dare look on that Which might appall the devil. 26 LADY MACBETH. 65 O proper stuff! This is the very painting of your fear. This is the air-drawn dagger which, you said, Led you to Duncan. O, these flaws20 and starts, Impostors to true fear, would well become A woman’s story at a winter’s fire, Authorized21 by her grandam. Shame itself! Why do you make such faces? When all’s done, You look but on a stool. 21. Authorized vouched for. MACBETH. 70 Prithee, see there! Behold! Look! Lo! How say you? Why, what care I? If thou canst nod, speak too. If charnel houses22 and our graves must send Those that we bury back, our monuments Shall be the maws of kites.23 20. flaws gusts of wind; outbursts of emotion. 75 LADY MACBETH. MACBETH. [Exit GHOST.] What, quite unmanned in folly? If I stand here, I saw him. LADY MACBETH. 352 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Fie, for shame! 22. charnel houses vaults containing human bones dug up in making new graves. 23. our . . . kites Our tombs shall be the bellies of birds of prey. 27 27 Scene from Macbeth, Cattermole, The Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington,D.C. 28 In what ways does the artist’s use of light and shadow suggest the conflict in Act III, Scene iv? [Interpret] 24. Ere . . . weal before humane laws civilized the state and made it gentle. 25. mortal . . . crowns deadly wounds on their heads. LADY MACBETH. My worthy lord, Your noble friends do lack you. I do forget. Do not muse at me, my most worthy friends; I have a strange infirmity, which is nothing To those that know me. Come, love and health to all! Then I’ll sit down. Give me some wine, fill full. 85 MACBETH. Vocabulary Builder infirmity (in f†r« mß tè) n. physical or mental defect; illness [Enter GHOST.] 90 I drink to th’ general joy o’ th’ whole table, And to our dear friend Banquo, whom we miss; Would he were here! To all and him we thirst,26 And all to all. LORDS. Avaunt!27 and quit my sight! Let the earth hide thee! Thy bones are marrowless, thy blood is cold; MACBETH. 95 Our duties, and the pledge. Humanities Scene from Macbeth, by George Cattermole George Cattermole (1800–1868) was born in Norfolk, England. Trained as an architectural draftsman, he later turned to illustrating historical events, particularly scenes of battles and duels. He is best known for his illustrations and watercolors. Cattermole was good friends with Charles Dickens, whose writings he illustrated. He also created romantic illustrations for works of Lord Byron and Sir Walter Scott. His sense of history drove him to always pay careful attention to such details as the backgrounds and costumes the characters wore. Use these questions for discussion: MACBETH. 80 Blood hath been shed ere now, i’ th’ olden time, Ere humane statute purged the gentle weal;24 Ay, and since too, murders have been performed Too terrible for the ear. The times has been That, when the brains were out, the man would die, And there an end; but now they rise again, With twenty mortal murders on their crowns,25 And push us from our stools. This is more strange Than such a murder is. Critical Viewing 1. Does Macbeth’s body language suggest anything about his state of mind? Answer: Though Macbeth is depicted as a large, powerful man, his body language suggests that he is fearful and taken aback. 2. What might the bright light in the center of the painting represent? Possible response: Some students may say the bright light in the center of the painting represents Macbeth’s fear that the truth about his plot will surface. It also highlights the line of kings who will descend from Banquo—the good that will survive Macbeth’s evil. Critical Viewing 26. thirst drink. 28 27. Avaunt Be gone! Possible reponse: The artist’s use of shadow may symbolize Macbeth’s emotional state: He attempts to stay in the light, acting the jovial host, but the shadows, Banquo’s ghost, and Macbeth’s guilty conscience keep intruding. 29 Why is Macbeth startled at the feast? Macbeth, Act III, Scene iv ■ 353 29 Reading Check Answer: Macbeth is startled at the feast because he sees the ghost of Banquo. 353 30 Reading Strategy Thou hast no speculation28 in those eyes Which thou dost glare with. Reading Between the Lines • Ask students to consider how they would react if they were at a dinner party where the host began to act as Macbeth does. Possible response: Students will probably say that they would be concerned or afraid that the host was hallucinating, insane, or unwell. • Have students consider Lady Macbeth’s comments in this scene. Then, ask them the Reading Strategy question: Do Lady Macbeth’s remarks suggest that she, too, sees the ghost? Possible response: It seems unlikely that Lady Macbeth sees the ghost, because she is too calm in making excuses, and she is too annoyed with Macbeth’s reactions, which she would understand if she saw the ghost. Also, she was not involved in Banquo’s murder and doesn’t know about it yet, so it is likely that she would react pretty strongly to the gore-soaked image of a butchered Banquo. However, some students may feel that she must see the ghost, because of her own guilt. • Ask students why they think Lady Macbeth is covering up for Macbeth. Answer: Though it seems likely that she is worried only about Duncan’s murder, having not yet been told about Banquo, Lady Macbeth knows that her own security rests on Macbeth’s crime remaining a secret. She was an aide in the crime, and would therefore be condemned. Even if Macbeth fell and she escaped punishment, she would no longer be queen, and her ambition is also behind Duncan’s murder. 28. speculation sight. LADY MACBETH. Think of this, good peers, But as a thing of custom, ’tis no other. Only it spoils the pleasure of the time. 100 MACBETH. 105 What man dare, I dare. Approach thou like the rugged Russian bear, The armed rhinoceros, or th’ Hyrcan29 tiger; Take any shape but that,30 and my firm nerves Shall never tremble. Or be alive again, And dare me to the desert31 with thy sword. If trembling I inhabit32 then, protest me The baby of a girl. Hence, horrible shadow! Unreal mock’ry, hence! 29. Hyrcan (hßr« kßn) from Hyrcania, a province of the ancient Persian and Macedonian empires south of the Caspian Sea. 30. that Banquo’s shape. [Exit GHOST.] Why, so: being gone, I am a man again. Pray you, sit still. 31. desert place where neither of us could escape. 32. inhabit remain indoors. LADY MACBETH. 30 110 You have displaced the mirth, broke the good meeting, With most admired33 disorder. MACBETH. 115 Can such things be, And overcome us34 like a summer’s cloud, Without our special wonder? You make me strange Even to the disposition that I owe,35 When now I think you can behold such sights, And keep the natural ruby of your cheeks, When mine is blanched with fear. 33. admired amazing. 35. disposition. . . owe my own nature. Reading Strategy LADY MACBETH. Reading Between the Lines Do Lady Macbeth’s remarks in this scene suggest that she, too, sees the ghost? Why or why not? LENNOX. 36. Stand . . . going Do not wait to depart in order of rank. ROSS. 120 34. overcome us come over us. What sights, my lord? I pray you, speak not: He grows worse and worse; Question enrages him: at once, good night. Stand not upon the order of your going,36 But go at once. Good night; and better health Attend his Majesty! LADY MACBETH. A kind good night to all! [Exit LORDS.] MACBETH. 125 It will have blood, they say: blood will have blood. Stones have been known to move and trees to speak; Augures and understood relations37 have By maggot-pies and choughs38 and rooks brought forth The secret’st man of blood.39 What is the night? LADY MACBETH. Almost at odds40 with morning, which is which. MACBETH. How say’st thou, that Macduff denies his person At our great bidding? 37. Augures and understood relations omens and the relationship between the omens and what they represent. 38. maggot-pies and choughs (chufs) magpies and crows. 39. man of blood murderer. 40. at odds disputing. 354 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Hecate and Scene v Hecate (pronounced hekaty—so it would almost rhyme with angerly in line 1) was a goddess accepted at an early date into Greek religion. However, she was probably derived from an early people in southwest Asia Minor. The name in Greek means “she who works her will.” Hecate was the chief goddess of magic and spells. Because of associations between magic and the moon, she was often identified with the moon-goddess Diana. However, Hecate was considered the infernal aspect of the moon. 354 Interestingly, it is possible that Shakespeare didn’t create this appearance of Hecate in the play. Most scholars believe that this scene was written by someone else. They think it was added because Elizabethan audiences enjoyed the witches so thoroughly. Some attribute the passage to playwright Thomas Middleton (1580–1627), a contemporary of Shakespeare who was known for his social satires. The scene is clever, but contributes nothing to the action of the play. 31 130 LADY MACBETH. Did you send to him, sir? MACBETH. 135 31 140 I hear it by the way, but I will send: There’s not a one of them but in his house I keep a servant fee’d.41 I will tomorrow, And betimes42 I will, to the weird sisters: More shall they speak, for now I am bent43 to know By the worst means the worst. For mine own good All causes shall give way. I am in blood Stepped in so far that, should I wade no more, Returning were as tedious as go o’er. Strange things I have in head that will to hand, Which must be acted ere they may be scanned.44 LADY MACBETH. 41. fee’d paid to spy. 42. betimes quickly. 43. bent determined. Literary Analysis Conflict How do lines 136–139 in Scene iv mark a turning point in Macbeth’s inner conflict? You lack the season of all natures,45 sleep. Come, we’ll to sleep. My strange and self-abuse46 Is the initiate fear that wants hard use.47 We are yet but young in deed. 44. scanned examined. 45. season . . . natures preservative of all living creatures. MACBETH. 145 [Exit.] Scene v. A witches’ haunt. Why, how now, Hecate! you look angerly. Have I not reason, beldams1 as you are, Saucy and overbold? How did you dare To trade and traffic with Macbeth In riddles and affairs of death; And I, the mistress of your charms, The close contriver2 of all harms, Was never called to bear my part, Or show the glory of our art? And, which is worse, all you have done Hath been but for a wayward son, Spiteful and wrathful; who, as others do, Loves for his own ends, not for you. But make amends now: get you gone, And at the pit of Acheron3 Meet me i’ th’ morning: thither he Will come to know his destiny. Your vessels and your spells provide, Your charms and everything beside. I am for th’ air; this night I’ll spend Unto a dismal and a fatal end: Great business must be wrought ere noon. Upon the corner of the moon There hangs a vap’rous drop profound; I’ll catch it ere it come to ground: And that distilled by magic sleights4 HECATE. 5 10 15 20 25 46. My . . . self-abuse my strange delusion. 47. initiate . . . use beginner’s fear that will harden with experience. [Thunder. Enter the THREE WITCHES, meeting HECATE.] FIRST WITCH. Literary Analysis Conflict 1. beldams hags. 2. close contriver secret inventor. 3. Acheron (ak« ßr än«) hell; in Greek mythology the river of Hades. 4. sleights devices. 32 Why will Macbeth visit “the weird sisters” again? Macbeth, Act III, Scene v ■ 355 Support for English Learners Enrichment for Advanced Readers The rhyming in Hecate’s speech may present both help and problems to students. The fun sound of rhyming words is a common mnemonic in learning language, but some of the words don’t rhyme in current usage. Point out word pairs that no longer rhyme now: are / dare (lines 2–3) and bear / fear (lines 30–31). Also, explain that sleights (line 26) does rhyme with sprites. Read the speech aloud. Then, have students read sections of the speech to practice pronunciation. Thomas Middleton has been named as the possible author of Act III, Scene v. Have students research this playwright and scan one or more of his plays, looking for clues as to his style and writing skill. Ask them to read enough to form an opinion about Middleton’s abilities. Then, have them present their evidence, in a written or oral report, as to whether or not Middleton would have been up to creating this scene. • Have students read Macbeth’s comments in lines 131–141 and 143–145 carefully. • Have students identify the comment that lets them know that Macbeth already doesn’t trust anyone. Answer: In lines 132–133, he says he is paying servants in everyone’s households to spy for him. • Ask students the Literary Analysis question: How do lines 136–139 in Scene iv mark a turning point in Macbeth’s inner conflict? Answer: Macbeth has come to the point where he feels that he will do anything to protect his position, without his previous doubts. He has reached what he himself views as the point of no return, where he has gone so far that it’s as far forward as it is back. • Ask students what they think these lines, along with the comment in line 145, tell the audience about what events they can expect in the future. Answer: It indicates that Macbeth will visit the witches, but it also indicates that a lot more people will be murdered. “We are but young in deed” indicates that the killing has only just begun. Reteach: Remind students that the climax of a play is the point at which the conflict reaches its highest point, and after that the action falls as the conflicts are resolved. Ask students how they feel Macbeth’s attitude at this point reflects the beginning of the resolution of conflicts. Possible response: Macbeth’s inner conflict appears to have been resolved; he no longer seems to be slowed up by any sense of guilt or fear of consequences. The decision to resolve the external conflict has been made, as Macbeth spies on and plans to kill his enemies. 32 Reading Check Answer: Macbeth decides to visit the weird sisters again to demand that they tell him more about his future, now that he has done so much. 355 33 Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines • As students read Scene vi, tell them to look for subtle comments that would let the audience know that Lennox and the other lord are not as fond of Macbeth as they might at first seem. In fact, you may wish to tell them to read it with the idea in mind that they hate Macbeth. 30 5. artificial sprites spirits created by magic. 6. confusion ruin. 7. security overconfidence. [Music and a song.] 35 • Have students look at lines 18–19. Ask them what Lennox says that lets us know that he believes that Duncan’s sons are innocent. Answer: His comment that, if it pleases heaven, Duncan’s sons will never be in Macbeth’s power, shows that he feels that they should not be punished. Hark! I am called; my little spirit, see, Sits in a foggy cloud and stays for me. [Exit.] [Sing within, “Come away, come away,” etc.] FIRST WITCH. Come, let’s make haste; she’ll soon be back again. [Exit.] Scene vi. The palace. [Enter LENNOX and another LORD.] My former speeches have but hit1 your thoughts, Which can interpret farther.2 Only I say Things have been strangely borne.3 The gracious Duncan Was pitied of Macbeth: marry, he was dead. And the right-valiant Banquo walked too late; Whom, you may say, if ’t please you, Fleance killed, For Fleance fled. Men must not walk too late. Who cannot want the thought,4 how monstrous It was for Malcolm and for Donalbain To kill their gracious father? Damnèd fact!5 How it did grieve Macbeth! Did he not straight, In pious rage, the two delinquents tear, That were the slaves of drink and thralls6 of sleep? Was not that nobly done? Ay, and wisely too; For ’twould have angered any heart alive To hear the men deny ’t. So that I say He has borne all things well: and I do think That, had he Duncan’s sons under his key— As, an ’t7 please heaven, he shall not—they should find What ‘twere to kill a father. So should Fleance. But, peace! for from broad8 words, and ’cause he failed His presence at the tyrant’s feast, I hear, Macduff lives in disgrace. Sir, can you tell Where he bestows himself? LENNOX. • Have students identify the word (lines 22–26) that both men use that tells us their true feelings about Macbeth. Answer: Both use the word tyrant, which implies injustice and a usurped throne. 5 • Ask students how the second lord’s description of England’s Edward lets us know that this lord feels that Duncan’s son is innocent. Answer: He calls him pious and holy, which implies that he would be on the side of right and goodness. Therefore, if he has received Duncan’s son, the son must be innocent. • Have students discuss what coming action and events they can anticipate from the information supplied in lines 24–39. Answer: Macbeth will probably try to kill Macduff. Macbeth will soon face an English army, as well as unhappy Scots, in battle. Shall raise such artificial sprites5 As by the strength of their illusion Shall draw him on to his confusion.6 He shall spurn fate, scorn death, and bear His hopes ’bove wisdom, grace, and fear: And you all know security7 Is mortals’ chiefest enemy. 10 15 20 33 LORD. 25 The son of Duncan, From whom this tyrant holds the due of birth,9 Lives in the English court, and is received Of the most pious Edward10 with such grace 1. hit coincided with. 2. Which . . . farther from which you can draw your own conclusions. 3. borne managed. 4. cannot . . . thought can fail to think. 5. fact deed. 6. thralls slaves. 7. an ’t if it. 8. broad unguarded. 9. due of birth birthright; claim to the throne. 10. Edward Edward the Confessor, king of England 1042–1066. 356 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Forms of Propaganda (For more practice, see Standardized Test Preparation Workbook, p. 14.) Many tests require students to recognize perAnd beggared yours forever? suasive devices. Use this item to show that Macbeth asks the murderers these questions sometimes rhetorical questions are a persuasive because he wants them to— device. A answer him truthfully Macbeth. . . . Do you find B be patient and forgiving Your patience so predominant in your nature, C know what Banquo has done to them D agree to kill Banquo That you can let this go? Are you so gospeled, Macbeth is persuading the murderers to kill To pray for this good man and for his issue, Banquo. The correct answer is D. Whose heavy hand hath bowed you to the grave 356 34 34 30 35 34 Vocabulary Builder That the malevolence of fortune nothing Takes from his high respect.11 Thither Macduff Is gone to pray the holy King, upon his aid12 To wake Northumberland and warlike Siward;13 That by the help of these, with Him above To ratify the work, we may again Give to our tables meat, sleep to our nights, Free from our feasts and banquets bloody knives, Do faithful homage and receive free honors:14 All which we pine for now. And this report Hath so exasperate the King that he Prepares for some attempt of war. LENNOX. malevolence (mß lev«ß lßns) n. ill will; spitefulness 11. with . . . respect does not diminish the high respect he is given. 12. upon his aid to aid Malcolm. 13. To . . . Siward to call to arms the commander of the English forces, the Earl of Northumberland, and his son Siward. 14. free honors honors given to freemen. Sent he to Macduff? 40 LORD. He did: and with an absolute “Sir, not I,” The cloudy15 messenger turns me his back, And hums, as who should say “You’ll rue the time That clogs16 me with this answer.” 15. cloudy disturbed. 16. clogs burdens. • Call students’ attention to the word malevolent and its definition. Tell students that the Latin word root -mal- means “bad,” or “badly.” • Have students suggest words and phrases that contain this root, and list them on the chalkboard. • If students don’t offer many examples, feel free to add others. Examples might include malpractice, malediction, malefactor, malfunction, maladjusted, malcontent, malodorous, malnourished. • Then, have students look up in the dictionary the meanings of any words that are unfamiliar. LENNOX. 45 And that well might Advise him to a caution, t’ hold what distance His wisdom can provide. Some holy angel Fly to the court of England and unfold His message ere he come, that a swift blessing May soon return to this our suffering country Under a hand accursed! Vocabulary Builder Latin Prefix mal- LORD. Answers I’ll send my prayers with him. 1. (a) Macbeth complains that murdered men don’t stay in their graves, they rise again. (b) Possible response: There is a kind of grim humor in the passage. It’s a ridiculous response to a blood-covered ghost. (c) Possible response: The grim humor here, which emanates from guilt and insanity, is not really comparable to the porter’s scene, which was kind of goofy but innocent. The porter gets a laugh; Macbeth gets a shudder. [Exit.] Critical Reading 1. (a) Recall: In the banquet scene, what complaint does Macbeth make about murdered men? (b) Analyze: Is there anything humorous or even ridiculous in this complaint? Why or why not? (c) Connect: Does Shakespeare use humor for comic relief in this scene, as he does in the earlier scene with the porter? Explain. 2. (a) Recall: What does Macbeth think as he anticipates the murder of Banquo? (b) Compare and Contrast: Compare and contrast Macbeth’s thoughts about Banquo’s murder with his thoughts before the murder of Duncan. 3. Synthesize: Has the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth changed? Explain. 4. Generalize: What does this act suggest about the effects of evil on evildoers? Explain. For: More about William Shakespeare Visit: www.PHSchool.com Web Code: ese-9209 Macbeth, Act III, Scene vi ■ 357 For additional information about William Shakespeare, have students type in the Web Code, then select S from the alphabet, and then select the author’s name. 2. (a) Macbeth thinks he will have made himself safe by killing Banquo. He is eager to see it done. (b) Possible response: Macbeth’s thoughts before killing Duncan were quite different. His fear then was about the act of killing; with regard to Banquo, he fears the victim. He hesitated then, he doesn’t now. 3. The relationship has changed. They are no longer partners. Macbeth is not consulting Lady Macbeth or informing her of his decisions. She is no longer urging him to violence but would rather have him calm down and stop worrying. 4. Possible answer: The evildoer becomes calloused and no longer has normal feelings of either guilt or love. The evil is never finished, and it continues to produce evil results. 357