Topic: Act IV Questions
Act IV
Scene I
How does the witches’ rhyming couplet refrain add to the atmosphere? Why is the use of “double” appropriate to Macbeth?
List the three apparitions and quote the statement accompanying each.
When Macbeth asks if Banquo’s issue will ever reign, what is he shown?
Tell how Macbeth’s words contradict or belie his actions with regard to the witches. These words repeat his statement in a previous scene. Locate it.
Macbeth says, “To crown my thoughts with acts, be it thought and done!” What is he planning?
Scene II
Briefly summarize what happens in this scene.
Scene III
Another reference to foulness being hidden is given by Malcolm. Quote that line. To whom is Malcolm referring?
In talking to Macduff, Malcolm describes many of his own vices. Further, Malcolm lists kingly virtues that he himself does not have. List several of those “king-becoming graces.”
Why does Malcolm portray himself as a potential, sinful tyrant? Quote Malcolm’s negation of his own description.
How does Macduff’s reaction to the deaths of his wife, children, and servants contrast to information about him in Scene II? What does Malcolm encourage Macduff to do?
Explicate this line: “The night is long that never finds the day.”