Macbeth Act 1, Scenes 5–7

Questions and Answers

ACT 1, SCENE 5

A. Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Lady Macbeth fear that Macbeth may not become king?

Lady Macbeth believes that Macbeth has sufficient ambition to become king but lacks the will and determination to achieve it. She considers him too full of the “milk of human kindness” to commit the cruel deed required to obtain the crown. She therefore decides that she must influence and strengthen his resolve.

2. What does Lady Macbeth mean by “milk of human kindness”?

The phrase refers to Macbeth’s compassionate and humane nature. Lady Macbeth considers these qualities a weakness because they may prevent him from murdering Duncan. She believes that Macbeth needs to become more ruthless if he is to fulfil the witches’ prophecy.

3. Why does Lady Macbeth invoke the spirits?

Lady Macbeth invokes the spirits because she wants to suppress all natural feelings of pity and remorse. She asks them to “unsex” her and fill her with cruelty so that nothing will prevent her from participating in Duncan’s murder. Her invocation reveals her extreme determination.

4. What does Lady Macbeth mean by “unsex me here”?

Lady Macbeth wants to free herself from the qualities that she associates with femininity, particularly tenderness, compassion and weakness. She believes that these qualities could prevent her from committing murder. She therefore asks the supernatural powers to make her emotionally hard and ruthless.

5. Why does Lady Macbeth ask for “thick night”?

Lady Macbeth asks for darkness because she wants the murder to remain hidden from human beings and from heaven. Night symbolises secrecy, evil and concealment. Her invocation of darkness also creates a sinister atmosphere for the crime that is about to take place.

6. What does the “innocent flower” and “serpent” represent?

The “innocent flower” represents Macbeth’s outward appearance of innocence, kindness and loyalty. The “serpent” represents the hidden evil and murderous intention beneath that appearance. Lady Macbeth therefore advises Macbeth to deceive Duncan by appearing harmless while secretly preparing to kill him.

B. Reason-Based Questions

7. Lady Macbeth believes that Macbeth would not be able to carry out the murder of Duncan. Why?

Lady Macbeth believes that Macbeth is too compassionate and morally sensitive to commit such a cruel act. Although he is ambitious and desires the crown, she thinks his “milk of human kindness” will prevent him from acting ruthlessly. She therefore decides that she must strengthen his determination and overcome his hesitation.

8. Why does Lady Macbeth ask Macbeth to hide his looks?

Lady Macbeth knows that Macbeth’s face may reveal his murderous thoughts and intentions. She therefore asks him to conceal his emotions and behave naturally in Duncan’s presence. Her advice is part of the larger plan to maintain an innocent appearance while secretly preparing for the murder.

9. Why does Lady Macbeth describe the messenger as a “raven”?

Lady Macbeth associates the messenger with a raven, a bird traditionally connected with death and ill omens. The messenger brings news that Duncan is coming to Macbeth’s castle, which gives Lady Macbeth the opportunity she has been waiting for. The image therefore foreshadows Duncan’s impending death.

10. Why does Lady Macbeth describe Macbeth’s face as revealing his murderous thoughts?

Macbeth is not naturally deceptive at this point and his emotions are visible in his expressions. Lady Macbeth fears that Duncan may recognise something suspicious in his face. She therefore advises Macbeth to control his appearance and conceal the thoughts that are reflected in his expression.

ACT 1, SCENE 6

A. Short Answer Questions

11. Why does Duncan find Macbeth’s castle pleasant?

Duncan finds the castle pleasant because it appears peaceful, welcoming and hospitable. The natural surroundings also seem beautiful and comfortable. His admiration is ironic because the audience already knows that the castle conceals a plan to murder him.

12. Who is described as the “guest of summer”?

The martlet, a small bird, is described as the “guest of summer.” Banquo notices that the bird has chosen Macbeth’s castle as a suitable place to build its nest. Its presence suggests that the castle appears peaceful, safe and welcoming.

13. Why is the martlet significant in this scene?

The martlet symbolises the apparent peace and safety of Macbeth’s castle. It chooses to build its nest there because the castle seems welcoming and secure. This becomes ironic because the castle is actually hiding a murderous plot against Duncan.

14. Why does Duncan call Lady Macbeth a “noble hostess”?

Duncan calls Lady Macbeth a noble hostess because she welcomes him with gracious and respectful hospitality. She behaves exactly as a loyal subject and generous hostess should behave. The description is ironic because the audience knows that she is secretly planning his murder.

15. What is the dramatic irony in Duncan’s statement about the castle?

Duncan sees Macbeth’s castle as a pleasant and peaceful place, while the audience knows that it is the setting for his impending murder. His trust in the castle and its inhabitants therefore contrasts sharply with the reality. This creates strong dramatic irony.

B. Reason-Based Questions

16. Why does Lady Macbeth appear to be a perfect hostess?

Lady Macbeth deliberately behaves like a perfect hostess because she wants Duncan to have no suspicion about her intentions. She uses courteous and respectful language and welcomes him warmly. Her outward behaviour conceals the murderous plan that she and Macbeth have already formed.

17. Why is the scene ironic in nature?

The scene is ironic because everything appears pleasant on the surface while something terrible is about to happen underneath. Duncan praises the castle and Lady Macbeth’s hospitality, but the audience knows that he is about to be murdered. The contrast between appearance and reality creates the irony.

18. Why does Duncan say he would be grateful to Macbeth?

Duncan is deeply grateful to Macbeth for his loyal service and bravery. He believes Macbeth deserves further rewards and honours. Ironically, Duncan’s generosity is directed towards the very man who is preparing to betray and murder him.

ACT 1, SCENE 7

A. Short Answer Questions

19. Why is Macbeth hesitant to murder Duncan?

Macbeth hesitates because he understands that Duncan’s murder would be a terrible crime. Duncan is his king, kinsman and guest, and he has been a good and virtuous ruler. Macbeth also fears the consequences of committing such an act.

20. What does Macbeth mean by “We will proceed no further in this business”?

Macbeth means that he has decided to abandon the plan to murder Duncan. He has thought carefully about the moral and political consequences and realises that there is no justification for the crime. At this point, his conscience is stronger than his ambition.

21. What is the only reason Macbeth finds for murdering Duncan?

Macbeth admits that he has no valid reason for murdering Duncan except his own “vaulting ambition.” Duncan has not harmed him and is a good king. Macbeth therefore recognises that his desire for power is the only force pushing him towards murder.

22. What does Macbeth mean by “vaulting ambition”?

“Vaulting ambition” refers to an excessive desire for power that may ultimately cause a person’s downfall. Macbeth compares his ambition to something attempting to leap too high and falling on the other side. The phrase reveals that he understands the dangerous nature of his own ambition.

23. How does Lady Macbeth persuade Macbeth to murder Duncan?

Lady Macbeth attacks Macbeth’s courage and masculinity when he decides not to proceed with the murder. She suggests that a truly determined man would act upon his ambitions rather than retreat from them. She also presents a practical plan involving Duncan’s guards, which makes the murder appear achievable. Her manipulation finally succeeds in changing Macbeth’s mind.

24. How does Lady Macbeth question Macbeth’s manhood?

Lady Macbeth suggests that Macbeth’s unwillingness to carry out his plan demonstrates a lack of courage and determination. She deliberately attacks his sense of masculinity because she knows that he values his identity as a brave warrior. By questioning his manhood, she pressures him into proving himself through action.

25. Why does Lady Macbeth use the image of a baby in her argument?

Lady Macbeth uses the shocking image of a mother killing her own baby to demonstrate the strength of her determination. She claims that once she has given her word, she would carry it out regardless of how horrifying the act might be. The image emphasises her apparent ruthlessness and determination.

26. How does Lady Macbeth plan to murder Duncan?

Lady Macbeth plans to give Duncan’s guards enough alcohol to make them incapable of defending him. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth will then murder Duncan and smear his blood on the guards. The guards will consequently appear responsible for the crime, allowing Macbeth and Lady Macbeth to escape suspicion.

27. Why does Macbeth finally agree to murder Duncan?

Macbeth finally agrees because Lady Macbeth successfully manipulates his sense of courage and masculinity. She also gives him confidence by presenting a practical plan for the murder. His ambition ultimately becomes stronger than his conscience, and he decides to proceed with the crime.

28. What does Macbeth mean by “False face must hide what the false heart doth know”?

Macbeth means that he must conceal his evil intentions behind an innocent outward appearance. His “false face” represents deception, while his “false heart” represents his hidden intention to murder Duncan. The line reinforces the central theme of appearance versus reality.

Important Broad Questions

29. Describe Lady Macbeth’s character as presented in Act 1, Scene 5.

Lady Macbeth is presented as a woman of extraordinary ambition, determination and willpower. After reading Macbeth’s letter, she immediately believes that he can become king but worries that his compassionate nature will prevent him from achieving the crown. She considers his “milk of human kindness” a weakness and decides to influence him. Her invocation of the spirits shows her willingness to suppress pity and conscience. She asks to be “unsexed” and filled with cruelty so that she can participate in Duncan’s murder without hesitation. She also demonstrates her intelligence by understanding the importance of deception. Her advice to Macbeth to appear like an “innocent flower” while secretly being a “serpent” shows that she understands how appearances can be manipulated. At this point in the play, she is more decisive and ruthless than Macbeth and becomes the principal force pushing him towards murder.

30. How does Shakespeare create dramatic irony in Act 1, Scene 6?

Act 1, Scene 6 is dominated by dramatic irony because Duncan is completely unaware of the danger surrounding him. He arrives at Macbeth’s castle and finds the surroundings pleasant and peaceful. Banquo also notices the martlet nesting there, which reinforces the impression of safety and hospitality. Duncan praises the castle and warmly accepts Lady Macbeth’s welcome. The audience, however, already knows that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are planning to murder him. Lady Macbeth’s gracious behaviour is therefore completely different from her private intentions. Duncan’s description of her as a “noble hostess” becomes particularly ironic because she is preparing to betray him. Shakespeare thus uses the contrast between what Duncan sees and what the audience knows to create tension and foreshadow the murder.

31. Discuss Macbeth’s hesitation before Duncan’s murder.

Macbeth’s hesitation reveals that he still possesses a strong moral conscience. He understands that Duncan is his king, kinsman and guest, and that he has therefore no justification for murdering him. He also recognises Duncan’s virtues as a ruler and understands that his death could produce serious consequences. Macbeth considers the possibility that violence may eventually return upon the person who commits it. He finally admits that his only motivation is his “vaulting ambition.” As a result, he initially decides that he will “proceed no further in this business.” His hesitation demonstrates that he is not naturally or immediately ruthless. However, Lady Macbeth’s psychological manipulation eventually overcomes his resistance. His decision to proceed therefore represents the triumph of ambition over conscience.

32. How does Lady Macbeth succeed in changing Macbeth’s mind?

Lady Macbeth succeeds primarily through psychological manipulation. When Macbeth decides not to murder Duncan, she questions his courage and suggests that his hesitation makes him less of a man. She understands that Macbeth is proud of his reputation as a brave warrior and therefore attacks the very foundation of his self-image. She also presents a practical plan in which Duncan’s guards will be made drunk and then blamed for the murder. This reduces Macbeth’s fear about how the crime can be carried out and concealed. Lady Macbeth’s confidence contrasts sharply with Macbeth’s uncertainty. Her shocking description of what she would be willing to do demonstrates the strength of her determination. Eventually, Macbeth allows his ambition and desire to prove himself to overcome his moral objections. Shakespeare therefore shows how ambition can be intensified through manipulation.

Long Answer Questions from the Workbook

33. Referring closely to Act 1, describe the courage of Macbeth on the battlefield.

Macbeth is initially presented in Act 1 as a remarkably brave and courageous warrior. During the rebellion against Duncan, he fights with extraordinary determination and loyalty. He does not merely defend himself but actively seeks out the enemy and attacks with great force. His courage is demonstrated through his willingness to face danger directly. The wounded captain describes Macbeth as a heroic fighter who does not fear the violence of battle. Duncan is deeply impressed by Macbeth’s service and rewards him with the title of Thane of Cawdor. Macbeth’s military courage establishes him as a respected and powerful figure in Scotland. This makes his later hesitation before murdering Duncan particularly interesting because the fearless warrior of the battlefield becomes uncertain when confronted with a moral choice. Shakespeare therefore contrasts physical courage with moral courage.

34. Describe the contrast in the character of Macbeth and Banquo brought out by the witches’ prophecy.

The witches’ prophecy affects Macbeth and Banquo in very different ways. Macbeth becomes deeply interested in the possibility of becoming king and begins to think about his future in relation to the prophecy. Banquo, however, is more cautious and suspicious of the supernatural forces. He recognises that evil may tell partial truths in order to lead people towards destruction. Macbeth gradually becomes increasingly fascinated by the possibility of power, whereas Banquo remains morally cautious. The contrast becomes especially important because Macbeth allows ambition to dominate his judgment. Banquo does not allow the prophecy to determine his actions in the same way. Shakespeare therefore uses the two characters to demonstrate different responses to supernatural temptation. Their contrasting reactions also reinforce the importance of free will and personal choice.

35. Describe the character of Lady Macbeth as presented in Act 1.

Lady Macbeth is presented as an ambitious, determined and initially ruthless woman. When she learns about the witches’ prophecy, she immediately begins considering how Macbeth can become king. She understands that Macbeth is ambitious but believes that his “milk of human kindness” will prevent him from committing Duncan’s murder. She therefore decides to influence him and strengthen his determination. Her invocation of the spirits and her request to be “unsexed” show her desire to suppress compassion and embrace cruelty. She also demonstrates considerable practical intelligence by developing a plan to murder Duncan and blame the guards. Her ability to manipulate Macbeth shows that she understands his psychological weaknesses. She initially appears stronger and more decisive than her husband. However, her later guilt reveals that the ruthless exterior she constructs cannot completely destroy her conscience.

36. How is the theme of “appearances can be deceptive” presented in Act 1?

The theme of deceptive appearances is established repeatedly throughout Act 1. Macbeth initially appears to be a loyal and courageous warrior, yet the witches’ prophecy awakens his ambition to become king. Lady Macbeth advises him to “look like th’ innocent flower, / But be the serpent under’t.” Duncan then arrives at Macbeth’s castle and sees only beauty, peace and hospitality. He calls Lady Macbeth a “noble hostess”, completely unaware that she and Macbeth are planning his murder. Macbeth himself eventually accepts that his “false face” must hide his intentions. Thus, Shakespeare repeatedly contrasts outward appearances with hidden realities. The pleasant castle conceals a murderous plan, the gracious hostess conceals a ruthless mind, and the loyal subject conceals ambition and treachery. The theme therefore becomes one of the major principles governing the tragedy.

37. Describe the imagery used by Duncan to suggest his feelings towards Macbeth.

Duncan uses imagery that expresses warmth, admiration, gratitude and trust towards Macbeth. He considers Macbeth a brave and loyal subject who deserves honour for his service. In Scene 6, Duncan also describes Macbeth’s castle as pleasant and welcoming, which reflects his confidence in his host. His language is particularly ironic because the audience knows that Macbeth is preparing to betray him. Duncan’s positive imagery therefore contributes to the contrast between appearance and reality. His admiration also makes Macbeth’s eventual betrayal more serious because Macbeth is turning against a king who respects and rewards him. Duncan’s trusting language consequently heightens the tragedy of his impending murder.

38. Discuss the atmosphere of doom and disorder in Act 1.

The atmosphere of Act 1 gradually changes from uncertainty to doom and disorder. The appearance of the witches at the beginning introduces supernatural darkness and moral confusion. Their prophecy awakens Macbeth’s ambition and begins the chain of events leading towards Duncan’s murder. Lady Macbeth’s invocation of spirits, darkness and cruelty intensifies the sinister atmosphere. Duncan’s arrival at Macbeth’s castle creates dramatic irony because the audience knows that death is approaching while Duncan feels completely safe. Macbeth’s internal conflict further develops the sense of impending disaster. By the end of Scene 7, the murder has been deliberately planned. The atmosphere is therefore one of concealed danger, with peaceful appearances hiding a growing threat. Shakespeare creates the sense that the natural and moral order of Scotland is beginning to break down.

39. How does Shakespeare present the contrast between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth in these scenes?

Shakespeare initially presents Macbeth and Lady Macbeth as contrasting personalities. Macbeth is ambitious but hesitant, thoughtful and morally conflicted. Lady Macbeth is equally ambitious but appears far more decisive, ruthless and determined. Macbeth recognises Duncan’s goodness and his own responsibilities towards him, whereas Lady Macbeth focuses almost entirely on achieving the crown. When Macbeth decides to abandon the murder, Lady Macbeth attacks his courage and masculinity. She then gives him a practical plan for carrying out the crime. Macbeth eventually allows her arguments to overcome his conscience. Their relationship at this stage therefore shows Lady Macbeth acting as the stronger psychological force. At the same time, the contrast foreshadows the later reversal in their fortunes, when guilt begins to affect Lady Macbeth profoundly.

40. Discuss the importance of Act 1, Scenes 5, 6 and 7 in the development of the tragedy.

Act 1, Scenes 5, 6 and 7 are crucial because they transform Macbeth’s ambition into a deliberate plan for murder. In Scene 5, Lady Macbeth learns about the prophecy and immediately begins considering how Macbeth can become king. She recognises his weakness and decides to influence him. In Scene 6, Duncan arrives at Macbeth’s castle and unknowingly places himself in the presence of his future murderers. His confidence in the castle and its inhabitants creates powerful dramatic irony. In Scene 7, Macbeth struggles with his conscience and initially refuses to murder Duncan. Lady Macbeth then manipulates him by attacking his courage and masculinity and provides a practical murder plan. Macbeth finally agrees to proceed and accepts the need for deception. These scenes therefore mark the transition from prophecy to ambition, ambition to temptation, and temptation to deliberate action.

41. Why is Macbeth’s “vaulting ambition” so important to his character?

Macbeth’s description of his desire as “vaulting ambition” is important because it identifies the fundamental weakness that will contribute to his downfall. Macbeth knows that Duncan has not wronged him and that the murder cannot be justified. He understands that Duncan is his king, relative, guest and a virtuous ruler. Nevertheless, Macbeth desires the crown so intensely that he considers violating all these relationships. The metaphor of “vaulting” suggests an attempt to leap too high and consequently fall. His ambition therefore contains the possibility of his own destruction. Shakespeare shows that the witches do not create Macbeth’s ambition; they merely awaken something already present within him. Lady Macbeth then strengthens that ambition and turns it towards action. Macbeth’s tragedy consequently arises from the destructive combination of ambition, temptation and personal choice.