1 Review and Anticipate In Act II, Lady Macbeth drugs 1 About the Selection 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. Act III marks a turning point in the Duncan’s sons, Malcolm and Donalbain, flee, afraid that they will be assas- action. Up until now, things have sinated by a kinsman eager to claim the throne. Because they run away, gone very much the way Macbeth some suspect them of killing their father. As the act closes, it seems that had planned. However, his sense of Macbeth will be named king. insecurity leads him to fear Banquo Act III begins with Macbeth on the throne—as the witches had predicted. and his offspring. When his plan to All seems to be going well for him, but he feels threatened by Banquo. murder Banquo and his son is only partially successful, a series of events is set in motion, leading to Macbeth’s 2 downfall. Critical Viewing Scene i. Forres. The palace. After wielding a dagger 2 like this against Duncan, Critical Viewing Enter BANQUO [ .] can Macbeth expect to Possible response: Macbeth has rule in peace? Explain. begun his reign in blood and vio- BANQUO. Thou hast it now: King, Cawdor, Glamis, all, [Predict] As the weird women promised, and I fear lence; he cannot expect to rule in Thou play’dst most foully for ’t. Yet it was said peace. It should not stand1 in thy posterity, 1. stand continue. 5 But that myself should be the root and father 3 Reading Strategy 3 Of many kings. If there come truth from them— Reading Between the Lines As upon thee, Macbeth, their speeches shine— Why, by the verities on thee made good, • Direct students’ attention to May they not be my oracles as well lines 1–10. Ask them to consider 10 And set me up in hope? But hush, no more! Banquo’s speech and to discuss what threat Banquo poses to 2 [Sennet sounded. Enter MACBETH as King, LADY MACBETH, 2. Sennet trumpet call. Macbeth. Why might Banquo have LENNOX, ROSS, LORDS, and ATTENDANTS.] kept the information about the MACBETH. Here’s our chief guest. witches to himself? Possible responses: Banquo LADY MACBETH. If he had been forgotten, poses a threat because if he tells It had been as a gap in our great feast, what he knows, he might cast sus- 3 And all-thing unbecoming. 3. all-thing altogether. picion on Macbeth. He may have

MACBETH. Tonight we hold a solemn4 supper, sir, 4. solemn ceremonious. kept the information to himself to use to his advantage, or he may And I’ll request your presence. 5. grave and prosperous weighty and profitable. have been afraid that telling others 15 BANQUO. Let your Highness might implicate him in the murder. Command upon me, to the which my duties Vocabulary Builder After all, he was promised that his Are with a most indissoluble tie indissoluble (in« di säl« yØ descendants would be kings. For ever knit. bßl) adj. not able to be dissolved or undone • In the lines that follow, Macbeth MACBETH. Ride you this afternoon? is cordial and invites Banquo to a feast. Banquo, in turn, pledges loy- BANQUO. Ay, my good lord. 4 alty. Ask students if they think either is sincere. 20 MACBETH. We should have else desired your good advice What does Banquo (Which still hath been both grave and prosperous5) suspect about Macbeth? • In lines 18 and following, Macbeth questions Banquo about his after- Macbeth, Act III, Scene i ■ 343 noon 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 Interpret In this day’s council; but we’ll take tomorrow. Is’t far you ride? • Have students look at lines 29–32. BANQUO. As far, my lord, as will fill up the time • Remind students that the term 25 ’Twixt this and supper. Go not my horse the better,6 6. Go not . . . better unless cousin in the Elizabethan period I must become a borrower of the night my horse goes faster than I meant kinsman, not necessarily an expect. For a dark hour or twain. actual cousin. MACBETH. Fail not our feast. • Then, ask them who are the “bloody cousins” referred to by BANQUO. My lord, I will not. Macbeth. What do we learn about MACBETH. We hear our bloody cousins are bestowed these “cousins”? 30 In England and in Ireland, not confessing 5 Answer: Duncan’s sons are the Their cruel parricide, filling their hearers “bloody cousins,” because they are With strange invention.7 But of that tomorrow, 7. invention lies. rumored to have plotted their When therewithal we shall have cause of state father’s murder. We learn that they Craving us jointly.8 Hie you to horse. Adieu, 8. cause... jointly matters have reached England and Ireland 35 Till you return at night. Goes Fleance with you? of state demanding our joint and are telling “lies”—which, com- attention. BANQUO. Ay, my good lord: our time does call upon ’s. ing from the actual murderer, Macbeth, means they are probably MACBETH. I wish your horses swift and sure of foot, telling the truth. And so I do commend you to their backs. Farewell. [Exit BANQUO.] 6 Critical Thinking 40 Let every man be master of his time Till seven at night. To make society Analyze The sweeter welcome, we will keep ourself • Review what the witches promised Till suppertime alone. While9 then, God be with you! 9. While until. Macbeth and Banquo when they [Exit LORDS and all but MACBETH and a SERVANT.] visited them in Act I. 10 Answer: They promised that Sirrah, a word with you: attend those men 10. Sirrah common address to an inferior. Macbeth would be king, and 45 Our pleasure? that Banquo’s heirs will be kings. ATTENDANT. They are, my lord, without the palace gate.

• Have students divide the soliloquy MACBETH. Bring them before us. [Exit SERVANT.] into two parts and describe the To be thus11 is nothing, but12 to be safely thus— 11. thus king. topics of each of the two parts. Our fears in Banquo stick deep, 12. but unless. Answer: The first part of the solilo- 50 And in his royalty of nature reigns that quy runs from lines 49 to 57. It Which would be feared. ’Tis much he dares; Vocabulary Builder 13 reveals that Macbeth fears Banquo. And, to that dauntless temper of his mind, dauntless (dônt« lis) adj. The second part runs from the He hath a wisdom that doth guide his valor fearless; cannot be intimidated middle of line 57 through line 72. 6 To act in safety. There is none but he In this part, Macbeth reveals his 55 Whose being I do fear: and under him 14 resentment of the prophecy that My genius is rebuked, as it is said 13. to added to. 15 Banquo’s descendants, not his Mark Antony’s was by Caesar. He chid the sisters, 14. genius is rebuked When first they put the name of King upon me, guardian spirit is cowed. own, will sit on the throne in the And bade them speak to him; then prophetlike future. 15. chid scolded. 60 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 16. gripe grip.

344 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625)

Plutarch Though he was also a mathematician, philoso- influenced the development of his concept of pher, world traveler, politician, educator, and the tragic hero. priest of the Delphic oracle, the reputation of While the mention of Mark Antony and the Greek essayist and biographer, Plutarch Caesar in Scene i, line 57, clearly connects with (A.D. 46–c. 119) rested on his writing. Of all his Plutarch’s reports of their lives, there are other works, the most important is Parallel Lives. This elements that Plutarch contributed to Macbeth. collection contains biographies of every impor- In his Life of Caesar, he reports of strange phe- tant soldier, leader, and orator of ancient Rome nomena at Caesar’s death (such as “noises and Greece. heard in the night”), prophecies and omens, Plutarch’s Lives was translated into English in and Caesar’s ghost appearing to his murderers the 16th century. It became the story source for (which also occurs in Shakespeare’s Julius Shakespeare’s Roman history plays but also Caesar).

344 7 Critical Thinking Thence to be wrenched with an unlineal hand, Infer No son of mine succeeding. If ’t be so, • Direct students’ attention to 17 65 For Banquo’s issue have I filed my mind; 17. filed defiled. Macbeth’s speech in lines 75–84. For them the gracious Duncan have I murdered; Put rancors in the vessel of my peace • Ask students what they can infer Only for them, and mine eternal jewel18 18. eternal jewel soul. about what Macbeth has told these 19 men. Given to the common enemy of man, 19. common... man the 70 To make them kings, the seeds of Banquo kings! Devil. Answer: He appears to have told Rather than so, come, fate, into the list, them that whatever miseries they And champion me to th’ utterance!20 Who’s there? 20. champion me to th’ have suffered can be blamed on utterance Fight against me Banquo. [Enter SERVANT and TWO MURDERERS.] to the death. • Ask students why he might have Now go to the door, and stay there till we call. told them this. [Exit SERVANT.] 21. held . . . fortune kept Answer: He wanted to give them you from good fortune. a reason to murder Banquo, to Was it not yesterday we spoke together? 22. passed in probation motivate them in a way that would MURDERERS. It was, so please your Highness. reviewed the proofs. make them feel that they would be solving a problem of their own. 75 MACBETH. Well then, now 23. born in hand deceived. Have you considered of my speeches? Know 24. half a soul halfwit. 8 That it was he in the times past, which held you Reading Strategy So under fortune,21 which you thought had been 25. notion mind. Reading Between the Lines 7 Our innocent self: this I made good to you 26. gospeled ready to • Ask students to think about the 22 forgive. 80 In our last conference; passed in probation with you, comment made by the first mur- 23 How you were born in hand, how crossed, the instruments, 27. go for pass as. derer in line 91. Who wrought with them, and all things else that might 28. Shoughs (shuks), To half a soul24 and to a notion25 crazed • Have students reread Lady water-rugs shaggy dogs, Macbeth’s views on manhood Say “Thus did Banquo.” long-haired dogs. in Act I, Scene vii, lines 49–54 FIRST MURDERER. You made it known to us. 29. clept called. (p. 316). 85 MACBETH. I did so; and went further, which is now • Then, ask students the Reading Our point of second meeting. Do you find Strategy question: What does the Your patience so predominant in your nature, Reading Strategy first murderer mean in line 91 26 That you can let this go? Are you so gospeled, Reading Between the when he answers Macbeth, “We Lines What does the first To pray for this good man and for his issue, are men”? murderer mean in line 91 90 Whose heavy hand hath bowed you to the grave when he answers Macbeth, Answer: The murderer means that And beggared yours for ever? “We are men”? they, as men, would not let such an 8 FIRST MURDERER. We are men, my liege. outrage go unpunished, which 30. valued file classification echoes Lady Macbeth’s earlier MACBETH. Ay, in the catalogue ye go for27 men; by valuable traits. views that it is manly to kill some- As hounds and greyhounds, mongrels, spaniels, curs, 31. closed enclosed. one who stands in your way. Shoughs, water-rugs28 and demi-wolves, are clept29 95 All by the name of dogs: the valued file30 32. addition distinction (to set it apart from other dogs). 9 Distinguishes the swift, the slow, the subtle, Reading Check The housekeeper, the hunter, every one Answer: Macbeth fears Banquo According to the gift which bounteous nature 9 because Banquo knows about the 31 Hath in him closed, whereby he does receive Why does Macbeth fear prophecies and might be suspicious. 100 Particular addition,32 from the bill Banquo? Also, if Banquo’s descendants will be kings, Macbeth will have no heir on Macbeth, Act III, Scene i ■ 345 the throne. Both things are a threat to Macbeth.

Support for Vocabulary for Strategy for Less Proficient Readers English Learners Advanced Readers Help students “read between Make certain students under- Allow students to read Act III the lines.” Read Banquo’s stand the definitions given in independently. Have them speech as a group. You might the side notes. For example, note lines or speeches that are add items to Step 2: meeting on the facing page, the defini- clues about what is going to the witches, the predictions, tion of dauntless includes the happen. Then, have them note Duncan’s murder, Macbeth’s words fearless and intimidated, where in the play their suspi- being made king. When you both of which might be new cions are confirmed. Suggest finish, analyze one of to English learners. Pronounce that they also note events that Macbeth’s speeches on the the words, and make certain remind them of clues they facing page. students understand them in didn’t previously write down, the story’s context. even from other acts.

345 10 Literary Analysis Conflict That writes them all alike: and so of men. Now if you have a station in the file,33 33. file ranks. Reteach: Review with students Not i’ th’ worst rank of manhood, say ’t, their understanding of internal and And I will put that business in your bosoms external conflicts. Reread the defi- 105 Whose execution takes your enemy off, nition of conflict on p. 342. Explain Grapples you to the heart and love of us, to students that a conflict can have Who wear our health but sickly in his life,34 34. wear . . . life are sick as both internal and external dimen- Which in his death were perfect. long as he lives. sions at the same time. SECOND MURDERER. I am one, my liege, Monitor Progress: Ask students Whom the vile blows and buffets of the world the Literary Analysis question: What 110 Hath so incensed that I am reckless what conflict does Macbeth express in I do to spite the world. lines 116–126? Answer: The external conflicts are FIRST MURDERER. And I another between Macbeth and Banquo and So weary with disasters, tugged with fortune, between Macbeth and public opin- That I would set35 my life on any chance, 35. set risk. ion. An internal conflict, though To mend it or be rid on ’t. not directly stated, may be identi- MACBETH. Both of you fied as existing between Macbeth Know Banquo was your enemy. and his fear. 115 BOTH MURDERERS. True, my lord. • Ask students if they believe the reasons Macbeth gives for not MACBETH. So is he mine, and in such bloody distance36 36. distance disagreement. killing Banquo himself. What rea- That every minute of his being thrusts sons might he really have for not Against my near’st of life:37 and though I could 37. near’st of life most vital wanting to kill Banquo himself? With barefaced power sweep him from my sight parts. 120 And bid my will avouch38 it, yet I must not, 38. avouch justify. Possible responses: Macbeth’s 10 reasons are partially true, because For certain friends that are both his and mine, 39 he would lose friends and allies. Whose loves I may not drop, but wail his fall 39. wail his fall (I must) bewail his death. However, his having the power is Who I myself struck down: and thence it is doubtful, because none of the That I to your assistance do make love, things Macbeth has said about 125 Masking the business from the common eye Literary Analysis Conflict What conflict Banquo are true. His real reason is For sundry weighty reasons. does Macbeth express in that he wants to look innocent of SECOND MURDERER. We shall, my lord, lines 116–126? the murder. He also may be con- Perform what you command us. cerned about getting injured if he FIRST MURDERER. Though our lives— attacks Banquo alone. MACBETH. Your spirits shine through you. Within this hour at most 11 Critical Thinking I will advise you where to plant yourselves, 40. the perfect . . . on’t exact Analyze 130 Acquaint you with the perfect spy o’ th’ time, information of the exact time. The moment on ’t;40 for ’t must be done tonight, 41. something some • Direct students’ attention to 41 42 And something from the palace; always thought distance. lines 134–139. That I require a clearness:43 and with him— 42. thought remembered. • Point out that in this passage, To leave no rubs44 nor botches in the work— Macbeth refers to Banquo’s son, 11 135 Fleance his son, that keeps him company, 43. clearness freedom from Fleance, almost as if he were an Whose absence is no less material to me suspicion. afterthought. Ask students how Than is his father’s, must embrace the fate 44. rubs flaws. important Fleance’s death is to Macbeth and why. Answer: Fleance’s death is very 346 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) 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 12 Reading Strategy Of that dark hour. Resolve yourselves apart:45 45. Resolve yourselves Reading Between the Lines I’ll come to you anon. apart Make your own decision. • Ask students the Reading Strategy MURDERERS. We are resolved, my lord. question: In Scene ii, lines 4–7, what has Lady Macbeth realized 140 MACBETH. I’ll call upon you straight.46 Abide within. 46. straight immediately. about her actions? It is concluded: Banquo, thy soul’s flight, Answer: Lady Macbeth is realizing If it find heaven, must find it out tonight. [Exit.] that they have paid a very high Scene ii. The palace. price for desires that have left them discontented and worried. [Enter MACBETH’S LADY and a SERVANT.] • Point out that her feelings reflect LADY MACBETH. Is Banquo gone from court? something of the uncertainty that SERVANT. Ay, madam, but returns again tonight. Macbeth is feeling, but with a dif- ference. She is beginning to sound LADY MACBETH. Say to the King, I would attend his leisure doubtful about their actions. For a few words. • Discuss with students why they SERVANT. Madam, I will. [Exit.] think her four lines might be LADY MACBETH. Nought’s had, all’s spent, Reading Strategy rhymed, when rhyme is normally 5 Where our desire is got without content: Reading Between saved for the end of a scene. 12 ’Tis safer to be that which we destroy the Lines In Scene ii, Possible response: It might Than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy. lines 4–7, what has Lady reflect a turning point for Lady Macbeth realized about Macbeth. [Enter MACBETH.] her actions? How now, my lord! Why do you keep alone, • Explain that, in showing uncertainty, Of sorriest fancies your companions making, she has now changed places with 10 Using those thoughts which should indeed have died Macbeth. He was doubtful before With them they think on? Things without all remedy Duncan’s murder, now she is. We Should be without regard: what’s done is done. already know more than Lady Macbeth does—that Macbeth has MACBETH. We have scotched1 the snake, not killed it: 1. scotched wounded. ordered the murder of Banquo and She’ll close2 and be herself, whilst our poor malice 2. close heal. Fleance. We see in the speeches that 15 Remains in danger of her former tooth.3 make up the rest of the scene that But let the frame of things disjoint,4 both the worlds5 suffer, 3. in ... tooth in as much danger as before. Ere we will eat our meal in fear, and sleep Macbeth is now the one in charge In the affliction of these terrible dreams 4. frame of things disjoint and determined to work evilly. 13 That shake us nightly: better be with the dead, universe collapse. 13 20 Whom we, to gain our peace, have sent to peace, 5. both the worlds heaven Critical Thinking Than on the torture of the mind to lie and earth. Analyze 6 In restless ecstasy. Duncan is in his grave; 6. ecstasy frenzy. • Direct students’ attention to After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well. lines 13–26. Treason has done his worst: nor steel, nor poison, 25 Malice domestic, foreign levy,7 nothing, 7. Malice . . . levy civil and • Point out that Shakespeare often Can touch him further. foreign war. makes use of the comparison between sleep and death. It was LADY MACBETH. Come on. a relatively common comparison Gentle my lord, sleek o’er your rugged looks; of biblical origin. However, Be bright and jovial among your guests tonight. 14 Shakespeare uses it masterfully What does Macbeth ask MACBETH. So shall I, love; and so, I pray, be you: the murderers to do? as a thread in the play. Remind students of the speech in Act II, Scene ii, when Macbeth says ■ Macbeth, Act III, Scene ii 347 “Sleep no more! Macbeth has murdered sleep.” • Ask students who Macbeth feels is sleeping better than he is in this passage. Strategy for Special Needs Students Strategy for Gifted/Talented Students Answer: He says that murdered To help students visualize the building conflict Ask students to create a “one-man show,” in Duncan sleeps better than he does. in the play, list the main characters on the which the story thus far is told from Macbeth’s board. Then discuss the conflicts. You may wish viewpoint. Have them note his thoughts about to create an additional conflict chart on the the witches, about his wife’s speeches, about 14 Reading Check board, adding to it as Macbeth runs afoul of the murder, about Banquo. They may lift Answer: Macbeth asks the murderers additional characters. Discuss the nature of each speeches from the play, but encourage them to conflict. Point out how Macbeth’s solutions add their own material. Tell students that they to kill Banquo and his son, Fleance. always create both more internal conflict for need to have only a page or two. Ask them to himself and additional external conflicts. do a dramatic reading of their creations.

347 15 Humanities Critical Viewing Mrs. Siddons as Lady Macbeth 15 16 This artist depicted by G. H. Harlow actress Sarah Siddons The actress depicted in this painting (1755–1831) playing Lady is Sarah Siddons (1755–1831), one Macbeth. How does Mrs. of the greatest English actresses of Siddons’s body language suggest the same inner her time. She came from a family of conflict as do lines 4–7 in traveling actors and began acting as Act III, ii? [Connect] a child. She played the part of Lady Macbeth early in her career and per- formed the role at London’s Drury Lane theater for the first time in 1785, terrifying audiences with her vivid portrayal of the famous character. Use these questions for discussion: 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 sin- ister. Her white robe gives her an

angelic, or perhaps ghostly, Garrick Club, London H. Harlow, G. appearance. 2. Ask students how this portrait Literary Analysis of Lady Macbeth compares with Conflict and Irony What the ones on pp. 319 and 336. is ironic about Macbeth’s Possible responses: Most stu- idea about disguising the couple’s real conflict dents will say that this portrait as Lady Macbeth, rs. Siddons M with Banquo (Scene ii, portrays Lady Macbeth as quieter, lines 30–35)? meeker, and more dainty than the 30 Let your remembrance apply to Banquo; 8 other portraits, in which she’s Present him eminence, both with eye and tongue: 8. Present him eminence 9 Honor him. depicted as larger than life, 17 Unsafe the while, that we must lave vibrant, and wild. Our honors in these flattering streams 9. Unsafe . . . lave We are And make our faces vizards10 to our hearts, unsafe as long as we have to wash. 16 Critical Viewing Disguising what they are. 10. vizards (viz« ßrdz) masks Answer: The clasped hands and sad 35 LADY MACBETH. You must leave this. 11. nature’s . . . eterne expression suggest the insecurity and MACBETH. O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife! Nature’s lease is not eternal. unhappiness in lines 4–7 of Scene ii. Thou know’st that Banquo, and his Fleance, lives. 17 Literary Analysis LADY MACBETH. But in them nature’s copy’s not eterne.11 Vocabulary Builder Conflict and Irony MACBETH. There’s comfort yet; they are assailable. jocund (jäk« ßnd) adj. • Remind students that dramatic 40 Then be thou jocund. Ere the bat hath flown cheerful; jovial irony occurs when the words or His cloistered flight, ere to black Hecate’s summons 12. shard-borne borne on 12 actions of a character take on a The shard-borne beetle with his drowsy hums scaly wings. meaning different from the one the character intends. 348 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) • 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 hav- ing Banquo murdered.

348 18 Reading Strategy Hath rung night’s yawning peal, there shall be done Reading Between the Lines A deed of dreadful note. • Have students read lines 39–56. LADY MACBETH. What ’s to be done? Monitor Progress: Then, ask 45 MACBETH. Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck,13 13. chuck term of students the Reading Strategy Till thou applaud the deed. Come, seeling14 night, endearment. question: To what specific action Scarf up15 the tender eye of pitiful day, 14. seeling eye-closing. do you think Macbeth is indirectly And with thy bloody and invisible hand Falconers sometimes sewed referring in lines 45–56? 16 ahawk’s eyes closed in order Cancel and tear to pieces that great bond to train it. Answer: Macbeth is referring 50 Which keeps me pale! Light thickens, and the crow 18 15. Scarf up blindfold. to his plot to have Banquo and Makes wing to th’ rooky17 wood. Fleance killed. Good things of day begin to droop and drowse, 16. great bond between Banquo and fate. • Ask students why they think Whiles night’s black agents to their preys do rouse. Macbeth might have chosen to Thou marvel’st at my words: but hold thee still; 17. rooky full of rooks, or crows. keep his plans for Banquo’s murder 55 Things bad begun make strong themselves by ill: from Lady Macbeth. So, prithee, go with me. [Exit.] Reading Strategy Reading Between the Possible responses: He may feel Scene iii. Near the palace. Lines To what specific that she would give him away at the banquet that night. He might [Enter THREE MURDERERS.] action do you think Macbeth is indirectly not trust anyone at this point. FIRST MURDERER. But who did bid thee join with us? referring in lines 45–56? Perhaps he wants to impress her by carrying out this act without urging 19 THIRD MURDERER. Macbeth. from her. Maybe he fears that she is SECOND MURDERER. He needs not our mistrust; since he delivers losing her “nerve.” Our offices1 and what we have to do 1. offices duties. 2 To the direction just. 2. direction just exact detail. 19 Critical Thinking FIRST MURDERER. Then stand with us. Speculate 5 The west yet glimmers with some streaks of day. • Direct students’ attention to the Now spurs the lated traveler apace entrance of the three murderers To gain the timely inn, and near approaches at the beginning of scene iii. The subject of our watch. • Ask students if they were surprised THIRD MURDERER. Hark! I hear horses. by the appearance of a third mur- BANQUO. [Within] Give us a light there, ho! derer. Possible responses: Students SECOND MURDERER. Then ’tis he. The rest may say that they are surprised, 10 That are within the note of expectation3 3. within . . . expectation on but some may say that they feel it Already are i’ th’ court. the list of expected guests. is in keeping with Macbeth’s FIRST MURDERER. His horses go about.4 4. His... about His horses actions so far. have been taken to the stable. THIRD MURDERER. Almost a mile: but he does usually— • Then, ask students why they think So all men do—from hence to th’ palace gate Macbeth sent a third murderer. Make it their walk. 20 Possible responses: He may not have trusted the first two. He might [Enter BANQUO and FLEANCE, with a torch] have thought the others weren’t SECOND MURDERER. A light, a light! What does Macbeth strong enough to take on Banquo, tell Lady Macbeth and THIRD MURDERER. ’Tis he. what does he hold back who is a great soldier. from her? • Tell students that the identity of the third murderer has been the sub- Macbeth, Act III, Scene iii ■ 349 ject 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 dis- guise. Whoever Shakespeare had Support for Support for Support for in mind, the third murderer works Special Needs Students Less Proficient Readers English Learners primarily as a plot device to show To help students stay involved To help students gain more Review the story to this point, in the story, review the events experience in using the skills to make certain students Macbeth’s growing fear and thus far, briefly for Acts I and II needed for understanding the understand what they are mistrust. (witches, murder) and with text, have them complete the reading. Take time to review more detail for Act III. To help Reading Between the Lines or words or sentence structure 20 Reading Check students hear sentence breaks Conflict exercises in Unit 2 that is confusing. Use the and the meaning contributed Resources for Act III of Listening to Literature Audio Answer: Macbeth tells Lady by oral interpretation, have Macbeth. You may wish to CDs, so students can hear Macbeth that something will happen them read along with have students work with part- words pronounced. Have to Fleance and Banquo, but he Listening to Literature Audio ners or individually with them read along, to connect doesn’t reveal that he has plotted CDs. teacher guidance. sounds with printed words. with murderers to have them killed.

349 21 Literary Analysis Conflict 15 FIRST MURDERER. Stand to ’t • Have students provide a review of BANQUO. It will be rain tonight. the events of scene iii. FIRST MURDERER. Let it come down. Answer: A mystery murderer has joined the two hired to kill [They set upon BANQUO.] Banquo. Banquo and his son BANQUO. O, treachery! Fly, good Fleance, fly, fly, fly! approach on horseback but dis- [Exit FLEANCE.] mount and walk the rest of the way to the castle. The three murderers 21 Thou mayst revenge. O slave! [Dies.] set on them. Fleance escapes and THIRD MURDERER. Who did strike out the light? Banquo is killed. FIRST MURDERER. Was’t not the way?5 5. way thing to do. • Remind students that Banquo is a great warrior, and it is likely that his 20 THIRD MURDERER. There’s but one down; the son is fled. son, who is probably a teenager, is SECOND MURDERER. We have lost best half of our affair. also skilled in battle. So, it is likely FIRST MURDERER. Well, let ’s away and say how much is done. that Fleance could escape the fight. [Exit.] • Ask students why Fleance’s escape creates an external conflict for Scene iv. The palace.

Macbeth. [Banquet prepared. Enter MACBETH, LADY MACBETH, ROSS, LENNOX, LORDS, Answer: Macbeth had hoped to and ATTENDANTS.] cheat fate. He had hoped that, 1 though the witches’ predictions MACBETH. You know your own degrees; sit down: 1. degrees ranks. At state At first and last, the hearty welcome. banquets guests were seated came true about him, he could according to rank. keep them from coming true about LORDS. Thanks to your Majesty. Banquo and the promised line of MACBETH. Ourself will mingle with society2 2. society company. kings to come from Banquo. 5 And play the humble host. •Tell students that many scholars Our hostess keeps her state,3 but in best time 3. keeps her state remains consider the climax of the play to We will require4 her welcome. seated on her throne. occur with the stage directions LADY MACBETH. Pronounce it for me, sir, to all our friends, 4. require request. “Exit Fleance.” Ask students why For my heart speaks they are welcome. Fleance’s escape is important to the drama. [Enter FIRST MURDERER.]

Answer: The escape is important 10 MACBETH. See, they encounter thee with their hearts’ thanks. because it means that Macbeth still Both sides are even: here I’ll sit i’ th’ midst: has an enemy to reckon with and Be large in mirth; anon we’ll drink a measure5 5. measure toast. the witches’ prophecy about The table round. [Goes to MURDERER] There’s blood upon thy face. Banquo’s heirs can still come true. It is the first time that one of MURDERER. ’Tis Banquo’s then. Macbeth’s plans has gone wrong. It 15 MACBETH. ’Tis better thee without than he within.6 6. thee . . . within you also means someone has lived to Is he dispatched? outside than he inside. tell of an attempted murder, which MURDERER. My lord, his throat is cut; that I did for him. might lead people to doubt the original story about Duncan’s MACBETH. Thou art the best o’ th’ cutthroats. murder—especially because Yet he’s good that did the like for Fleance; 7 Banquo had probably told Fleance 20 If thou didst it, thou art the nonpareil. 7. nonpareil without equal. about the prophecies and his con- cerns. 350 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) •Tell students that, though some scholars feel that Fleance’s exit is the climax, others believe the cli- max is in line 21, when Macbeth learns that Fleance has escaped. You may wish to have students dis- Ghosts cuss in class which event they feel When Shakespeare included ghosts in his plays, members of these cultures perform ceremonies is more climactic. he knew that many people believed in restless to call forth the ghosts and ask for their help in spirits who returned to Earth. Some people in earthly matters. Western culture believe that the ghosts of mur- In Australia, traditional Aboriginal groups dererd people appear to seek retribution (an would leave a campsite when someone died, to idea at least 1,600 years old at the time avoid the person’s spirits. In Asia, some people Shakespeare picked it up). honor the spirits of dead ancestors, which are Though the idea of ghosts or restless spirits is believed to bring good fortune to families who fairly universal, different groups have different show proper respect. views. Some groups of Native Americans and In Western cultures, some people are afraid Pacific Islanders believe that ghosts return to of ghosts, while others are fascinated. Earth for both good and evil purposes. Some

350 22 Literary Analysis MURDERER. Most royal sir, Fleance is ’scaped. Dramatic Irony MACBETH. [Aside] Then comes my fit again: I had else been perfect, • Explain that this scene contains Whole as the marble, founded as the rock, asides within asides. Macbeth is 8 As broad and general as the casing air: 8. as ... casing as unre- obviously off to the side talking strained as the surrounding. 25 But now I am cabined, cribbed, confined, bound in to the blood-soaked murderers, 9 To saucy doubts and fears.—But Banquo’s safe? 9. saucy insolent. because no one else sees them MURDERER. Ay, my good lord: safe in a ditch he bides, (their appearance would certainly With twenty trenchèd10 gashes on his head, 10. trenchèd trenchlike. have raised questions). Within this The least a death to nature.11 11. nature natural life. side conversation, Macbeth has MACBETH. Thanks for that. asides directed to the audience. 12. hear ourselves talk it 30 [Aside] There the grown serpent lies; the worm that’s fled over. •Tell students that the word worm in Hath nature that in time will venom breed, line 30 had a different meaning in 13. give the cheer make the No teeth for th’ present. Get thee gone. Tomorrow guests feel welcome. Shakespeare’s day. Then, it was We’ll hear ourselves12 again. [Exit MURDERER.] often used as another word for 14. The feast . . . welcome LADY MACBETH. My royal lord, The feast at which the host snake. Ask students if lines 30–33 You do not give the cheer.13 The feast is sold fails to make the guests feel remind them of anything else welcome while the food is 35 That is not often vouched, while ’tis a-making, Macbeth has said recently about being prepared is no more 14 ’Tis given with welcome. To feed were best at home; than a bought dinner. snakes. 22 From thence, the sauce to meat is ceremony;15 Answer: In Scene ii, lines 13–15, 15. From . . . ceremony Macbeth speaks of danger in gen- Meeting were bare without it. Ceremony adds a pleasant eral as being a snake and says that [Enter the GHOST of BANQUO and sits in MACBETH’S place.] flavor to the food. killing Duncan has wounded the MACBETH. Sweet remembrancer! 16. our . . . roofed the most honorable men in the country snake but not killed it. Killing Now good digestion wait on appetite, under one roof. Banquo and Fleance was a way And health on both! to remove that danger. 40 LENNOX. May’t please your Highness sit. 24 • Ask students to identify the drama- 16 MACBETH. Here had we now our country’s honor roofed, What do the murderers tic irony in Macbeth’s speech as Were the graced person of our Banquo present— fail to do? he converses with his guests. Answer: In lines 41–42, Macbeth says that everything would be 23 perfect if Banquo were there. In reality, he has done everything pos- Cultural Connection sible to ensure that Banquo will not be there—he has had Banquo mur- Stagecraft at the Globe It took some sophisticated Elizabethan theatrics to manage dered. 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 23 Literature in Context 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 Cultural Connection Macbeth is on the sides. A trapdoor in the floor of the rear stage was the means by not the only play that needed a trap- which Banquo’s ghost made an entrance. The trapdoor operated door for a ghost. Another famous silently, and it was not completely visible to the audience. apparition was “Great Caesar’s ghost” in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.

What other characters in Macbeth might have used a trapdoor for In fact, astonishing entrances were exits or entrances? included in most writers’ works— special effects have always been popular. Macbeth, Act III, Scene iv ■ 351 Connect to the Literature Ask students what other supernatural characters appear in Macbeth. Then, ask the Connect to the Literature question. Enrichment for Gifted/Talented Students Enrichment for Advanced Readers Answer: The three witches might Explain that Shakespeare’s plays have provided Tell students that, quite obviously, special have used a trapdoor. inspiration to many artists over the centuries. effects have changed a lot over the centuries. Some of the best-known works inspired by Movies depend on computers and other tech- 24 Reading Check Macbeth are included in the Student Edition. nologies to create effects. However, though the- Have students review these paintings. Students ater effects are now more sophisticated, they Answer: The murderers fail to kill may also wish to find other images by looking still depend on trapdoors for surprise entries. Fleance. at other versions of this play. Then, encourage Have students study the current state-of-the-art students to choose a setting, character, or event in special effects, either for theaters or for from Macbeth and capture it artistically. movies. Alternatively, they may wish to com- pare how the same effect would be created on film versus stage. Have students share their dis- coveries with the class.

351 25 Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines Who may I rather challenge for unkindness Than pity for mischance!17 17. Who . . . mischance • After students have read scene iv, whom I hope I may reproach ask them how it is consistent with ROSS. His absence, sir, for being absent due to the play thus far. 45 Lays blame upon his promise. Please ’t your Highness discourtesy rather than pity To grace us with your royal company? because he has had an Answer: Macbeth has seen float- accident. ing daggers, and Duncan’s death MACBETH. The table’s full. was accompanied by strange Reading Strategy events, so a ghost fits right in. LENNOX. Here is a place reserved, sir. Reading Between the • Macbeth is very agitated. Note MACBETH. Where? Lines How might you that, in lines 22–26, after learning LENNOX. Here, my good lord. What is ’t that moves your Highness? connect Macbeth’s of Fleance’s escape, he says “Then agitation with his MACBETH. comes my fit again” and goes on Which of you have done this? knowledge that Fleance has escaped? to describe how he is again the 50 LORDS. What, my good lord? prisoner of his fears. MACBETH. Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake Literary Analysis • Ask the Reading Strategy question: Thy gory locks at me. Conflict How does the How might you connect Macbeth’s incident with Banquo’s ROSS. Gentlemen, rise, his Highness is not well. agitation with his knowledge that ghost convey Macbeth’s inner conflict? Fleance has escaped? LADY MACBETH. Sit, worthy friends. My lord is often thus, Answer: Macbeth is concerned 55 And hath been from his youth. Pray you, keep seat. about the power the witches pre- The fit is momentary; upon a thought18 18. upon a thought in a dicted for Fleance and is upset that 25 He will again be well. If much you note him, moment. his latest murder plot was not suc- You shall offend him and extend his passion.19 19. passion suffering. cessful and might, therefore, be Feed, and regard him not.—Are you a man?

discovered. 60 MACBETH. Ay, and a bold one, that dare look on that • Remind students of the scene 26 Which might appall the devil. in which Macbeth saw the LADY MACBETH. O proper stuff! “air-drawn dagger” of which Lady This is the very painting of your fear. Macbeth speaks (Act II, scene i, This is the air-drawn dagger which, you said, lines 33–47). Led you to Duncan. O, these flaws20 and starts, 20. flaws gusts of wind; • Ask students what Macbeth’s com- 65 Impostors to true fear, would well become outbursts of emotion. ments in lines 76–84 indicate about A woman’s story at a winter’s fire, his view of murder. Authorized21 by her grandam. Shame itself! 21. Authorized vouched for. Answer: Macbeth seems to view Why do you make such faces? When all’s done, murder as not human or civilized, You look but on a stool. but not particularly evil. His com- MACBETH. Prithee, see there! ments indicate that he is more 70 Behold! Look! Lo! How say you? unnerved by seeing ghosts than he Why, what care I? If thou canst nod, speak too. is concerned about the immorality If charnel houses22 and our graves must send 22. charnel houses vaults of his actions. Those that we bury back, our monuments containing human bones dug up in making new graves. Shall be the maws of kites.23 [Exit GHOST.] 26 Literary Analysis 23. our . . . kites Our tombs 75 LADY MACBETH. What, quite unmanned in folly? shall be the bellies of birds Conflict of prey. MACBETH. If I stand here, I saw him. Reteach: Remind students that an external conflict is a struggle LADY MACBETH. Fie, for shame! between two characters or groups and an internal conflict is a strug- 352 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) gle 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, indicat- ing 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 27 27 Humanities 28 Critical Viewing Scene from Macbeth, by George In what ways does the artist’s use of light Cattermole and shadow suggest George Cattermole (1800–1868) was the conflict in Act III, born in Norfolk, England. Trained as Scene iv? [Interpret] 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 Cattermole, The Folger ShakespeareWashington,D.C. Library,

and Sir Walter Scott. His sense of his- tory drove him to always pay careful attention to such details as the back- grounds and costumes the characters wore. Scene from Macbeth, Use these questions for discussion: 1. Does Macbeth’s body language MACBETH. Blood hath been shed ere now, i’ th’ olden time, suggest anything about his state Ere humane statute purged the gentle weal;24 24. Ere . . . weal before Ay, and since too, murders have been performed humane laws civilized the of mind? state and made it gentle. Too terrible for the ear. The times has been Answer: Though Macbeth is 80 That, when the brains were out, the man would die, depicted as a large, powerful And there an end; but now they rise again, man, his body language suggests With twenty mortal murders on their crowns,25 25. mortal . . . crowns that he is fearful and taken aback. And push us from our stools. This is more strange deadly wounds on their 2. What might the bright light in the heads. Than such a murder is. center of the painting represent? LADY MACBETH. My worthy lord, Possible response: Some stu- Your noble friends do lack you. dents may say the bright light in the center of the painting repre- 85 MACBETH. I do forget. sents Macbeth’s fear that the truth Do not muse at me, my most worthy friends; Vocabulary Builder about his plot will surface. It also (in f†r« mß tè) I have a strange infirmity, which is nothing infirmity n. highlights the line of kings who To those that know me. Come, love and health to all! physical or mental defect; will descend from Banquo—the Then I’ll sit down. Give me some wine, fill full. illness good that will survive Macbeth’s [Enter GHOST.] evil. 90 I drink to th’ general joy o’ th’ whole table, And to our dear friend Banquo, whom we miss; 26. thirst drink. 28 Critical Viewing Would he were here! To all and him we thirst,26 27. Avaunt Be gone! Possible reponse: The artist’s use And all to all. of shadow may symbolize Macbeth’s LORDS. Our duties, and the pledge. 29 emotional state: He attempts to stay

27 in the light, acting the jovial host, MACBETH. Avaunt! and quit my sight! Let the earth hide thee! Why is Macbeth startled 95 Thy bones are marrowless, thy blood is cold; at the feast? but the shadows, Banquo’s ghost, and Macbeth’s guilty conscience keep intruding. 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 28. speculation sight. Reading Between the Lines Which thou dost glare with. • Ask students to consider how they LADY MACBETH. Think of this, good peers, would react if they were at a dinner But as a thing of custom, ’tis no other. party where the host began to act Only it spoils the pleasure of the time. as Macbeth does. Possible response: Students will 100 MACBETH. What man dare, I dare. probably say that they would be Approach thou like the rugged Russian bear, The armed rhinoceros, or th’ Hyrcan29 tiger; 29. Hyrcan (hßr« kßn) from concerned or afraid that the host Take any shape but that,30 and my firm nerves Hyrcania, a province of the was hallucinating, insane, or ancient Persian and Mace- Shall never tremble. Or be alive again, unwell. donian empires south of the 105 And dare me to the desert31 with thy sword. Caspian Sea. 32 • Have students consider Lady If trembling I inhabit then, protest me 30. that Banquo’s shape. Macbeth’s comments in this scene. The baby of a girl. Hence, horrible shadow! 31. desert place where Then, ask them the Reading Strat- Unreal mock’ry, hence! [Exit GHOST.] neither of us could escape. egy question: Do Lady Macbeth’s Why, so: being gone, 32. inhabit remain indoors. remarks suggest that she, too, sees I am a man again. Pray you, sit still. the ghost? LADY MACBETH. You have displaced the mirth, broke the 30 Possible response: It seems 110 good meeting, unlikely that Lady Macbeth sees the With most admired33 disorder. 33. admired amazing. ghost, because she is too calm in MACBETH. Can such things be, making excuses, and she is too And overcome us34 like a summer’s cloud, 34. overcome us come annoyed with Macbeth’s reactions, Without our special wonder? You make me strange over us. which she would understand if she Even to the disposition that I owe,35 35. disposition. . . owe my saw the ghost. Also, she was not 115 When now I think you can behold such sights, own nature. involved in Banquo’s murder and And keep the natural ruby of your cheeks, Reading Strategy doesn’t know about it yet, so it is When mine is blanched with fear. likely that she would react pretty Reading Between the ROSS. What sights, my lord? Lines Do Lady Macbeth’s strongly to the gore-soaked image remarks in this scene LADY MACBETH. I pray you, speak not: He grows worse and worse; of a butchered Banquo. However, suggest that she, too, some students may feel that she Question enrages him: at once, good night. sees the ghost? Why or 36 must see the ghost, because of her 120 Stand not upon the order of your going, why not? own guilt. But go at once. 36. Stand . . . going Do not • Ask students why they think Lady LENNOX. Good night; and better health wait to depart in order of rank. Macbeth is covering up for Attend his Majesty! Macbeth. LADY MACBETH. A kind good night to all! Answer: Though it seems likely [Exit LORDS.] that she is worried only about 37. Augures and under- MACBETH. It will have blood, they say: blood will have blood. Duncan’s murder, having not yet stood relations omens Stones have been known to move and trees to speak; and the relationship between been told about Banquo, Lady 125 Augures and understood relations37 have the omens and what they represent. Macbeth knows that her own secu- By maggot-pies and choughs38 and rooks brought forth rity rests on Macbeth’s crime The secret’st man of blood.39 What is the night? 38. maggot-pies and remaining a secret. She was an aide choughs (chufs) magpies LADY MACBETH. Almost at odds40 with morning, which is which. and crows. in the crime, and would therefore be condemned. Even if Macbeth MACBETH. How say’st thou, that Macduff denies his person 39. man of blood murderer. fell and she escaped punishment, At our great bidding? 40. at odds disputing. she would no longer be queen, and her ambition is also behind 354 ■ Celebrating Humanity (1485–1625) Duncan’s murder.

Hecate and Scene v Hecate (pronounced hekaty—so it would Interestingly, it is possible that Shakespeare almost rhyme with angerly in line 1) was a god- didn’t create this appearance of Hecate in the dess accepted at an early date into Greek reli- play. Most scholars believe that this scene was gion. However, she was probably derived from written by someone else. They think it was an early people in southwest Asia Minor. The added because Elizabethan audiences enjoyed name in Greek means “she who works her the witches so thoroughly. Some attribute the will.” Hecate was the chief goddess of magic passage to playwright Thomas Middleton and spells. Because of associations between (1580–1627), a contemporary of Shakespeare magic and the moon, she was often identified who was known for his social satires. The scene with the moon-goddess Diana. However, is clever, but contributes nothing to the action Hecate was considered the infernal aspect of of the play. the moon.

354 31 Literary Analysis 130 LADY MACBETH. Did you send to him, sir? Conflict MACBETH. I hear it by the way, but I will send: • Have students read Macbeth’s There’s not a one of them but in his house comments in lines 131–141 and I keep a servant fee’d.41 I will tomorrow, 41. fee’d paid to spy. 143–145 carefully. And betimes42 I will, to the weird sisters: 42. betimes quickly. • Have students identify the com- 135 More shall they speak, for now I am bent43 to know 43. bent determined. ment that lets them know that By the worst means the worst. For mine own good Macbeth already doesn’t trust All causes shall give way. I am in blood 31 Literary Analysis Stepped in so far that, should I wade no more, anyone. Conflict How do lines Returning were as tedious as go o’er. Answer: In lines 132–133, he says 136–139 in Scene iv mark a he is paying servants in everyone’s 140 Strange things I have in head that will to hand, turning point in Macbeth’s Which must be acted ere they may be scanned.44 inner conflict? households to spy for him. • Ask students the Literary Analysis LADY MACBETH. You lack the season of all natures,45 sleep. 44. scanned examined. question: How do lines 136–139 in 45. season . . . natures MACBETH. Come, we’ll to sleep. My strange and self-abuse46 preservative of all living Scene iv mark a turning point in 47 Is the initiate fear that wants hard use. creatures. Macbeth’s inner conflict? 145 We are yet but young in deed. [Exit.] 46. My . . . self-abuse my Answer: Macbeth has come to the Scene v. A witches’ haunt. strange delusion. point where he feels that he will do 47. initiate . . . use beginner’s anything to protect his position, [Thunder. Enter the THREE WITCHES, meeting HECATE.] fear that will harden with without his previous doubts. He has experience. FIRST WITCH. Why, how now, Hecate! you look angerly. reached what he himself views as the point of no return, where he 1 HECATE. Have I not reason, beldams as you are, 1. beldams hags. has gone so far that it’s as far for- Saucy and overbold? How did you dare ward as it is back. To trade and traffic with Macbeth • Ask students what they think these 5 In riddles and affairs of death; And I, the mistress of your charms, lines, along with the comment in The close contriver2 of all harms, 2. close contriver secret line 145, tell the audience about Was never called to bear my part, inventor. what events they can expect in Or show the glory of our art? the future. 10 And, which is worse, all you have done Answer: It indicates that Macbeth Hath been but for a wayward son, will visit the witches, but it also Spiteful and wrathful; who, as others do, indicates that a lot more people Loves for his own ends, not for you. will be murdered. “We are but But make amends now: get you gone, young in deed” indicates that 15 And at the pit of Acheron3 3. Acheron (ak« ßr än«)hell; the killing has only just begun. Meet me i’ th’ morning: thither he in Greek mythology the river of Hades. Reteach: Remind students that Will come to know his destiny. the climax of a play is the point at Your vessels and your spells provide, which the conflict reaches its high- Your charms and everything beside. est point, and after that the action 20 I am for th’ air; this night I’ll spend falls as the conflicts are resolved. Unto a dismal and a fatal end: 4. sleights devices. Ask students how they feel Great business must be wrought ere noon. Macbeth’s attitude at this point Upon the corner of the moon reflects the beginning of the There hangs a vap’rous drop profound; 32 resolution of conflicts. 25 I’ll catch it ere it come to ground: Why will Macbeth visit Possible response: Macbeth’s And that distilled by magic sleights4 “the weird sisters” again? inner conflict appears to have been resolved; he no longer seems to be Macbeth, Act III, Scene v ■ 355 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. Support for English Learners Enrichment for Advanced Readers The rhyming in Hecate’s speech may present Thomas Middleton has been named as the pos- 32 Reading Check both help and problems to students. The fun sible author of Act III, Scene v. Have students sound of rhyming words is a common research this playwright and scan one or more Answer: Macbeth decides to visit mnemonic in learning language, but some of of his plays, looking for clues as to his style and the weird sisters again to demand the words don’t rhyme in current usage. Point writing skill. Ask them to read enough to form that they tell him more about his out word pairs that no longer rhyme now: are / an opinion about Middleton’s abilities. Then, future, now that he has done so dare (lines 2–3) and bear / fear (lines 30–31). have them present their evidence, in a written much. Also, explain that sleights (line 26) does rhyme or oral report, as to whether or not Middleton with sprites. Read the speech aloud. Then, have would have been up to creating this scene. students read sections of the speech to practice pronunciation.

355 33 Reading Strategy Reading Between the Lines Shall raise such artificial sprites5 5. artificial sprites spirits As by the strength of their illusion created by magic. • As students read Scene vi, tell them Shall draw him on to his confusion.6 6. confusion ruin. to look for subtle comments that 30 He shall spurn fate, scorn death, and bear would let the audience know that His hopes ’bove wisdom, grace, and fear: Lennox and the other lord are not And you all know security7 7. security overconfidence. as fond of Macbeth as they might Is mortals’ chiefest enemy. at first seem. In fact, you may wish [Music and a song.] to tell them to read it with the idea in mind that they hate Macbeth. Hark! I am called; my little spirit, see, 35 Sits in a foggy cloud and stays for me. [Exit.] • Have students look at lines 18–19. Ask them what Lennox says that [Sing within, “Come away, come away,” etc.] lets us know that he believes that FIRST WITCH. Come, let’s make haste; she’ll soon be Duncan’s sons are innocent. back again. [Exit.] Answer: His comment that, if it pleases heaven, Duncan’s sons will Scene vi. The palace. never be in Macbeth’s power, shows that he feels that they [Enter LENNOX and another LORD.] should not be punished. LENNOX. My former speeches have but hit1 your thoughts, 1. hit coincided with. 2 • Have students identify the word Which can interpret farther. Only I say 2. Which... farther from (lines 22–26) that both men use Things have been strangely borne.3 The gracious Duncan which you can draw your own that tells us their true feelings Was pitied of Macbeth: marry, he was dead. conclusions. about Macbeth. 5 And the right-valiant Banquo walked too late; 3. borne managed. Answer: Both use the word tyrant, Whom, you may say, if ’t please you, Fleance killed, which implies injustice and a For Fleance fled. Men must not walk too late. usurped throne. Who cannot want the thought,4 how monstrous 4. cannot . . . thought can fail to think. • Ask students how the second It was for Malcolm and for Donalbain 5 lord’s description of England’s 10 To kill their gracious father? Damnèd fact! 5. fact deed. Edward lets us know that this lord How it did grieve Macbeth! Did he not straight, In pious rage, the two delinquents tear, feels that Duncan’s son is innocent. That were the slaves of drink and thralls6 of sleep? 6. thralls slaves. Answer: He calls him pious and Was not that nobly done? Ay, and wisely too; holy, which implies that he would 15 For ’twould have angered any heart alive be on the side of right and good- To hear the men deny ’t. So that I say ness. Therefore, if he has received He has borne all things well: and I do think Duncan’s son, the son must be That, had he Duncan’s sons under his key— innocent. As, an ’t7 please heaven, he shall not—they should find 7. an ’t if it. • Have students discuss what coming 20 What ‘twere to kill a father. So should Fleance. action and events they can antici- But, peace! for from broad8 words, and ’cause he failed 8. broad unguarded. pate from the information supplied His presence at the tyrant’s feast, I hear, in lines 24–39. Macduff lives in disgrace. Sir, can you tell Answer: Macbeth will probably try 33 Where he bestows himself? to kill Macduff. Macbeth will soon 9. due of birth birthright; LORD. The son of Duncan, face an English army, as well as claim to the throne. 25 From whom this tyrant holds the due of birth,9 unhappy Scots, in battle. Lives in the English court, and is received 10. Edward Edward the Confessor, king of England 10 Of the most pious Edward with such grace 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 per- And 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 That you can let this go? Are you so gospeled, D agree to kill Banquo To pray for this good man and for his issue, Macbeth is persuading the murderers to kill Whose heavy hand hath bowed you to the Banquo. The correct answer is D. grave

356 34 Vocabulary Builder 34 That the malevolence of fortune nothing 34 Vocabulary Builder Latin Prefix mal- Takes from his high respect.11 Thither Macduff malevolence (mß lev«ß lßns) • Call students’ attention to the word 30 Is gone to pray the holy King, upon his aid12 n. ill will; spitefulness To wake Northumberland and warlike Siward;13 malevolent and its definition. Tell 11. with . . . respect does students that the Latin word root That by the help of these, with Him above not diminish the high respect To ratify the work, we may again he is given. -mal- means “bad,” or “badly.” Give to our tables meat, sleep to our nights, 12. upon his aid to aid • Have students suggest words and 35 Free from our feasts and banquets bloody knives, Malcolm. phrases that contain this root, 14 Do faithful homage and receive free honors: 13. To . . . Siward to call to and list them on the chalkboard. arms the commander of the All which we pine for now. And this report • If students don’t offer many exam- Hath so exasperate the King that he English forces, the Earl of Northumberland, and his son ples, feel free to add others. Prepares for some attempt of war. Siward. Examples might include malprac- LENNOX. Sent he to Macduff? 14. free honors honors tice, malediction, malefactor, mal- given to freemen. function, maladjusted, malcontent, 40 LORD. He did: and with an absolute “Sir, not I,” malodorous, malnourished. The cloudy15 messenger turns me his back, 15. cloudy disturbed. And hums, as who should say “You’ll rue the time • Then, have students look up in the That clogs16 me with this answer.” 16. clogs burdens. dictionary the meanings of any words that are unfamiliar. LENNOX. And that well might Advise him to a caution, t’ hold what distance 45 His wisdom can provide. Some holy angel Fly to the court of England and unfold His message ere he come, that a swift blessing Answers May soon return to this our suffering country Under a hand accursed! 1. (a) Macbeth complains that LORD. I’ll send my prayers with him. [Exit.] murdered men don’t stay in their graves, they rise again. (b) Possible response: There is a kind of grim humor in the pas- sage. It’s a ridiculous response to a Critical Reading blood-covered ghost. 1. (a) Recall: In the banquet scene, what complaint does Macbeth make (c) Possible response: The grim about murdered men? (b) Analyze: Is there anything humorous or even humor here, which emanates ridiculous in this complaint? Why or why not? (c) Connect: Does from guilt and insanity, is not Shakespeare use humor for comic relief in this scene, as he does in the really comparable to the porter’s earlier scene with the porter? Explain. scene, which was kind of goofy 2. (a) Recall: What does Macbeth think as he anticipates the murder of but innocent. The porter gets a Banquo? (b) Compare and Contrast: Compare and contrast Macbeth’s laugh; Macbeth gets a shudder. thoughts about Banquo’s murder with his thoughts before the murder 2. (a) Macbeth thinks he will have of Duncan. made himself safe by killing Banquo. He is eager to see it 3. Synthesize: Has the relationship between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth For: More about done. (b) Possible response: changed? Explain. William Shakespeare 4. Generalize: What does this act suggest about the effects of evil on Visit: www.PHSchool.com Macbeth’s thoughts before killing evildoers? Explain. Web Code: ese-9209 Duncan were quite different. His fear then was about the act of killing; with regard to Banquo, he fears the victim. He hesitated Macbeth, Act III, Scene vi ■ 357 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 For additional information about decisions. She is no longer urging William Shakespeare, have students him to violence but would rather type in the Web Code, then select S from the alpha- bet, and then select the author’s name. 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