practice and apply act 3 - mr. sadek's classes€¦ · text analysis resources for act three...

NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 383 11/24/10 11:58:09 AM

5

10

15

20

act 3

Scene 1 Macbeth’s palace at Forres.Banquo voices his suspicions of Macbeth but still hopes that the prophecy about his own children will prove true. Macbeth, as king, enters to request Banquo’s presence at a state banquet. Banquo explains that he will be away during the day with his son, Fleance, but that they will return in time for the banquet. Alone, Macbeth expresses his fear of Banquo, because of the witches’ promise that Banquo’s sons will be kings. He persuades two murderers to kill Banquo and his son before the banquet.[Enter Banquo.]

Banquo. Thou hast it now—King, Cawdor, Glamis, allAs the Weïrd Women promised, and I fearThou played’st most foully for ’t. Yet it was saidIt should not stand in thy posterity,But that myself should be the root and fatherOf 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. a[Sennet sounded. Enter Macbeth as King, Lady Macbeth, Lennox, Ross, Lords, and Attendants.]

Macbeth. Here’s our chief guest.

Lady Macbeth. If he had been forgotten,It had been as a gap in our great feastAnd all-thing unbecoming.

Macbeth. Tonight we hold a solemn supper, sir,And I’ll request your presence.

Banquo. Let your HighnessCommand upon me, to the which my dutiesAre with a most indissoluble tieForever knit.

Macbeth. Ride you this afternoon?

Banquo. Ay, my good lord.

Macbeth. We should have else desired your good advice(Which still hath been both grave and prosperous)In this day’s council, but we’ll take tomorrow.Is ’t far you ride?

[Stage Direction] Sennet sounded: A trumpet is sounded.

14–15 A king usually uses the royal pronoun we. Notice how Macbeth switches to I, keeping a personal tone with Banquo.15–18 Banquo says he is duty bound to serve the king. Do you think his tone is cold or warm here?

21 grave and prosperous: thoughtful and profitable.

a SOLILOQUYReread lines 1–10, in which Banquo hopes the witches’ predictions for him will come true as they have for Macbeth. Why might Banquo want to hide his thoughts from Macbeth?

382 unit 2: the english renaissance


act three summaryMacbeth—now king—invites Banquo to a state banquet. When alone, he confesses his suspicion of Banquo and arranges for the murder of Banquo and Fleance. Banquo dies, but Fleance escapes. At the banquet, Macbeth believes that he sees Banquo’s ghost, and he reacts with horror. Lady Macbeth makes excuses for his behavior and dismisses the guests. Macbeth then meets with the witches, who, with Hecate, have planned his destruc-tion. Meanwhile, in England, Macduff and Malcolm build an army against Macbeth.

Model the Skill: summarize

To model the skill, summarize the last scene of Act 2 in a sentence. Then have students read the Scene 1 plot summary and restate Macbeth’s decision. Possible answer: Macbeth has decided to have Banquo and Fleance murdered, to keep the witches’ prophecy from coming true.

R E A D I N G S K I L L

a soliloQuyPossible answer: Banquo might want to hide his thoughts because he suspects Macbeth of Duncan’s death (lines 2–3). He would not want Macbeth to hear him speak of being “father / Of many kings” (lines 5–6), lest Macbeth decide to kill him, too.

T E X T A N A L Y S I S

Resources for Act Three

Practice and Apply

* Resources for Differentiation † Also in Spanish ‡ In Haitian Creole and Vietnamese

See resources on the Teacher One Stop DVD-ROM and on thinkcentral.com.

RESOURCE MANAGER UNIT 2Plan and Teach, pp. 97–102Summary, pp. 103–104†‡*Text Analysis, pp. 105–106†*

DIAGNOSTIC AND SELECTION TESTSSelection Tests, pp. 105–108

BEST PRACTICES TOOLKITSequence Chain, p. B21Problem and Solution Chart,

p. B20INTERACTIVE READERADAPTED INTERACTIVE READERELL ADAPTED INTERACTIVE

READER

TECHNOLOGY Teacher One Stop DVD-ROM Student One Stop DVD-ROM PowerNotes DVD-ROM Audio Anthology CD GrammarNotes DVD-ROM ExamView Test Generator on the Teacher One Stop

Go to thinkcentral.com to preview the Video Trailer introducing this selection. Other features that support the selection include• PowerNotes presentation • ThinkAloud models to enhance

comprehension• WordSharp vocabulary tutorials• interactive writing and grammar

instruction

Video Trailer

RL 4

RL 3RL 5

NA_L12TE_u02s09_macbeth3.indd 382NA_L12TE_u02s09_macbeth3.indd 382 1/3/11 9:08:02 AM1/3/11 9:08:02 AM

Banquo’s murder

NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 383 11/24/10 11:58:09 AMNA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 382 11/24/10 11:57:58 AM differentiated instruction

revisit the big QUESTION

Can you ever be too AMBITIOUS?Discuss In lines 1–13, what does Banquo ex-press as his ambition? Does he seem willing to do anything to fulfill it? Explain. Possible answer: Banquo expresses an ambition to be-come the father of kings, but he does not seem willing to do anything to fulfill that desire.

Analyze VisualsActivity Have students review the Scene 1 plot summary and then describe what this picture shows. What do the facial expression and body language of the first assassin suggest about his state of mind? Possible answer: This picture shows the two assassins whom Macbeth has hired. The assassin who holds the murdered man looks crazed and unsure of his actions, possibly remorseful.

for english language learnersPreview Read aloud the Act Three Summary and the italicized plot summary to give students an overview of Scene 1. Help them use a Sequence Circle to order plot events.

BEST PRACTICES TOOLKIT—TransparencySequence Circle p. B21

Task Support Have students read the side note and question for lines 15–18. Urge them to recall what Banquo said in lines 1–10 before they answer. Possible answer: Banquo’s tone is coldly ironic. He addresses Macbeth as “your Highness” (line 15), asks him to “command upon [him]” (line 16), and notes the “indissoluble tie” (line 17) between them. He does not speak to Macbeth as a friend; rather, he speaks with suspicion (line 3).

1.

2.

4.

3.

Banquo is suspicious of Macbeth and hopes that the witches’ prophecies prove true for him.

Banquo assures Macbeth that he and Fleance will return for the banquet.

Macbeth speaks of his fear of Banquo and the witches’ prophecy coming true for him.

Macbeth persuades two men to murder Banquo and Fleance.

This selection on thinkcentral.com includes embedded ThinkAloud models–students “thinking aloud” about the story to model the kinds of questions a good reader would ask about a selection.

Reading Support

macbeth: act three, scene 1 383



25

30

35

40

45

50

55

Banquo. As far, my lord, as will fill up the time’Twixt this and supper. Go not my horse the better,I must become a borrower of the nightFor a dark hour or twain.

Macbeth. Fail not our feast.

Banquo. My lord, I will not.

Macbeth. We hear our bloody cousins are bestowedIn England and in Ireland, not confessingTheir cruel parricide, filling their hearersWith strange invention. But of that tomorrow,When therewithal we shall have cause of stateCraving us jointly. Hie you to horse. Adieu,Till you return at night. Goes Fleance with you?

Banquo. Ay, my good lord. Our time does call upon ’s.

Macbeth. I wish your horses swift and sure of foot,And so I do commend you to their backs.Farewell.

[Banquo exits.]Let every man be master of his timeTill seven at night. To make societyThe sweeter welcome, we will keep ourselfTill suppertime alone. While then, God be with you.

[Lords and all but Macbeth and a Servant exit.]Sirrah, a word with you. Attend those menOur pleasure?

Servant. They are, my lord, without the palace gate.

Macbeth. Bring them before us.

[Servant exits.] To be thus is nothing,But to be safely thus. Our fears in BanquoStick deep, and in his royalty of natureReigns that which would be feared. ’Tis much he dares,And to that dauntless temper of his mindHe hath a wisdom that doth guide his valorTo act in safety. There is none but heWhose being I do fear; and under himMy genius is rebuked, as it is saidMark Antony’s was by Caesar. He chid the sistersWhen first they put the name of king upon meAnd bade them speak to him. Then, prophet-like,They hailed him father to a line of kings.

29 bloody cousins: murderous relatives (Malcolm and Donalbain); bestowed: settled.

32 strange invention: lies; stories they have invented. What kinds of stories might they be telling?33–34 when . . . jointly: when matters of state will require the attention of us both.

40 be master of his time: do what he wants.

43 while: until.

47–48 To be thus . . . safely thus: To be king is worthless unless my position as king is safe.

51 dauntless temper: fearless temperament.

55–56 Banquo’s mere presence forces back (rebukes) Macbeth’s ruling spirit (genius). In ancient Rome, Octavius Caesar, who became emperor, had the same effect on his rival, Mark Antony.

25–27 If his horse goes no faster than usual, he’ll be back an hour or two (twain) after dark.

44–45 sirrah: a term of address to an inferior; Attend . . . pleasure: Are they waiting for me?


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 384 11/24/10 11:58:15 AMdifferentiated instructionfor struggling readersTask Support Direct students to the side note question for line 32. Before students answer, have them reread lines 29–31. Point out that Macbeth is annoyed that the sons are not confessing their patricide (the murder of their father). Possible answer: Their stories might accuse Macbeth of murdering their father.

for english language learnersOutdated Forms Urge students to continue adding outdated terms to their language journal. (See the For English Language Learn-ers note on page 351.) Provide these terms and their definitions. Then have students reread the lines noted and substitute the definitions for the words.• ’Twixt (line 25), “Between”• therewithal (line 33), “along with that”

• Hie (line 34), “Go quickly”• chid (line 56), “scolded”• bade (line 58), “asked or instructed to do

something”• made good (line 78), “proved”• instruments (line 80), “documents”• notion (line 82), “mind”• catalogue (line 91), “listing of facts”• clept (line 93), “called”

tiered discussion promptsIn lines 47–71, use these prompts to help students explore what this soliloquy reveals about Macbeth’s character and his view of Banquo:

Recall Why does Macbeth feel threatened in this scene? How does he plan to resolve this problem? Possible answer: Macbeth fears that the rest of the witches’ prophecy about Banquo will come true. He plans to kill Banquo in order to keep the prophecy from coming true.Interpret In lines 48–56, how does Macbeth characterize Banquo? Possib le answer: Mac-beth characterizes Banquo quite favorably. He refers to Banquo’s “royalty of nature” (line 49), his “dauntless temper” (line 51), and the “wisdom that doth guide his valor” (line 52). He says that he does not fear anyone except Banquo (lines 53–54), whose presence tempers his own ambition (lines 54–56). His statements show that he regards Banquo very highly—and fears him at the same time.Synthesize Does Macbeth have a valid reason to be fearful of Banquo? Explain. Possible answer: In the context of the proph-ecies, Macbeth may have a valid reason for fear. On a personal level, however, Banquo has done nothing to suggest that he is as ruthless or ambitious as Macbeth; he prob-ably is not a threat.



Upon my head they placed a fruitless crownAnd put a barren scepter in my grip,Thence to be wrenched with an unlineal hand,No son of mine succeeding. If ’t be so,For Banquo’s issue have I filed my mind;For them the gracious Duncan have I murdered,Put rancors in the vessel of my peaceOnly for them, and mine eternal jewelGiven to the common enemy of manTo make them kings, the seeds of Banquo kings.Rather than so, come fate into the list,And champion me to th’ utterance.—Who’s there? b[Enter Servant and two Murderers.]

[To the Servant] Now go to the door, and stay there till we call.[Servant exits.]Was it not yesterday we spoke together?Murderers. It was, so please your Highness.

Macbeth. Well then, nowHave you considered of my speeches? KnowThat it was he, in the times past, which held youSo under fortune, which you thought had beenOur innocent self. This I made good to youIn our last conference, passed in probation with youHow you were borne in hand, how crossed, the instruments,Who wrought with them, and all things else that mightTo half a soul and to a notion crazedSay “Thus did Banquo.”

First Murderer. You made it known to us.

Macbeth. I did so, and went further, which is nowOur point of second meeting. Do you findYour patience so predominant in your natureThat you can let this go? Are you so gospeledTo pray for this good man and for his issue,Whose heavy hand hath bowed you to the graveAnd beggared yours forever?

First Murderer. We are men, my liege.

Macbeth. Ay, in the catalogue you go for men,As hounds and greyhounds, mongrels, spaniels, curs,Shoughs, water-rugs, and demi-wolves are cleptAll by the name of dogs. The valued fileDistinguishes the swift, the slow, the subtle,The housekeeper, the hunter, every oneAccording to the gift which bounteous nature

60

65

70

75

80

85

90

95

60–69 They gave me a childless (fruitless, barren) crown and scepter, which will be taken away by someone outside my family (unlineal). It appears that I have committed murder, poisoned (filed) my mind, and destroyed my soul (eternal jewel) all for the benefit of Banquo’s heirs.

75–83 Macbeth supposedly proved (passed in probation) Banquo’s role, his deception (how you were borne in hand), his methods, and his allies. Even a half-wit (half a soul) or a crazed person would agree that Banquo caused their trouble.

87–90 He asks whether they are so influenced by the gospel’s message of forgiveness (so gospeled) that they will pray for Banquo and his children despite his harshness, which will leave their own families beggars.

91–100 The true worth of a dog can be measured only by examining the record (valued file) of its special qualities (particular addition).

b TRAGEDYIn lines 70–71, Macbeth challenges fate to enter the combat arena so that he can fight it to the death. What will be the likely result of Macbeth’s efforts to fight fate?


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 385 11/24/10 11:58:16 AMNA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 384 11/24/10 11:58:15 AM

for struggling readersExplore Character Point out that in Act Three, Macbeth changes dramatically. His evil ac-tions intensify, and they affect him in new ways. Have students use the prereading chart introduced on page 347 to record the various changes in Macbeth’s character as they con-tinue reading Act Three.

Character: MacbethWords and Actions What They RevealHe decides that Banquo must die.

He is ruthless, com-pletely controlled by ambition.

He persuades two men to murder Banquo.

He is willing to kill his friend to get what he wants.

for english language learnersComprehension: Text Structure Help students sort out the sequence in lines 73–85:• The murderers once thought that Macbeth

had caused them trouble.• Macbeth met with the murderers yesterday

and convinced them that it was Banquo who had caused them trouble.

• Macbeth spoke with them before about this, and it is because of this first conversation that they are speaking again now.

b tragedyPossible answer: Macbeth will probably fail. His challenge to fate even may hasten his downfall and result in the death of others.IF STUDENTS NEED HELP . . .• Remind them that Macbeth is trying to

prevent the “seeds of Banquo” (line 69) from becoming kings but that according to the witches’ prophecies, the descen-dants of Banquo are fated to rule.

• Ask students to consider what Macbeth may need to do in order to battle fate, such as killing Banquo; then have them consider the possible results of such actions.


backgroundThe Great Chain of Being In the minds of Shakespeare and his audience, everything in the universe had a place in the Great Chain of Being, a hierarchy of creation. God was at the top; in descending order followed the catego-ries of angels, human beings, animals, plants, and rocks. These categories contained hier-archies, as well. In talking to the murderers, Macbeth says that they are in the category of human beings, just as all dogs belong to one category (lines 91–94). However, just as there is a hierarchy of dogs within their category, so there is of human beings—and the murderers are at the lowest rank in that category (lines 101–102).


RL 3RL 5



Hath in him closed; whereby he does receiveParticular addition, from the billThat writes them all alike. And so of men.Now, if you have a station in the file,Not i’ th’ worst rank of manhood, say ’t,And I will put that business in your bosomsWhose execution takes your enemy off,Grapples you to the heart and love of us,Who wear our health but sickly in his life,Which in his death were perfect.

Second Murderer. I am one, my liege,Whom the vile blows and buffets of the worldHath so incensed that I am reckless whatI do to spite the world.

First Murderer. And I anotherSo weary with disasters, tugged with fortune,That I would set my life on any chance,To mend it or be rid on ’t.

Macbeth. Both of youKnow Banquo was your enemy.

Murderers. True, my lord.

Macbeth. So is he mine, and in such bloody distanceThat every minute of his being thrustsAgainst my near’st of life. And though I couldWith barefaced power sweep him from my sightAnd bid my will avouch it, yet I must not,For certain friends that are both his and mine,Whose loves I may not drop, but wail his fallWho I myself struck down. And thence it isThat I to your assistance do make love,Masking the business from the common eyeFor sundry weighty reasons.

Second Murderer. We shall, my lord,Perform what you command us.

First Murderer. Though our lives—

Macbeth. Your spirits shine through you. Within this hour at mostI will advise you where to plant yourselves,Acquaint you with the perfect spy o’ th’ time,The moment on ’t, for ’t must be done tonightAnd something from the palace; always thoughtThat I require a clearness. And with him(To leave no rubs nor botches in the work)Fleance, his son, that keeps him company,

100

105

110

115

120

125

130

Language CoachFixed Expressions What do you think the expression the common eye refers to in line 124? What is a similar fixed, or standard, expression in today’s language?

103–107 Macbeth will give them a secret job (business in your bosoms) that will earn them his loyalty (grapples you to the heart) and love. Banquo’s death will make this sick king healthy.

111 tugged with: knocked about by.

115–117 Banquo is near enough to draw blood, and like a menacing swordsman, his mere presence threatens (thrusts against) Macbeth’s existence.119 bid my will avouch it: justify it as my will.

127 Your spirits shine through you: Your courage is evident.

131–132 and something . . . clearness: The murder must be done away from the palace so that I remain blameless (I require a clearness).


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 386 11/24/10 11:58:17 AMdifferentiated instructionfor english language learnersLanguage CoachFixed Expressions Possible answer: public view. Similar expression today: plain sight. Help students generate a list of other fixed expressions having to do with sight and explain what each means. If students have trouble, discuss these expressions: bird’s eye view, keep an eye out, with the naked eye.

for advanced learners/apCompare and Contrast [small-group option] Have groups of students discuss these ques-tions about the strategies that Macbeth uses to persuade the murderers:• In what way are the persuasive techniques

that Macbeth uses here similar to the tech-niques that Lady Macbeth employs in Act One? Cite textual evidence.

• In arranging the murders, what qualities do Macbeth and Lady Macbeth seem to share? What do their strategies for motivat-ing people suggest about human nature in general?

Invite groups to compare their responses.

tiered discussion promptsIn lines 115–125, use these prompts to help students consider Macbeth’s character:

Recall What has Macbeth led the murderers to believe about Banquo? Answer: Macbeth has convinced the murderers that Banquo is their enemy.Interpret Macbeth is the king, so why doesn’t he just order Banquo’s murder? Possible answer: Macbeth acknowledges that he could take that action (lines 117–119); however, he realizes that he and Banquo share some friends and that he needs the support of those friends (lines 120–121). Those men might rebel if they knew that he ordered Banquo’s murder (lines 121–122).Synthesize What does Macbeth’s reason-ing suggest about his character? How has Macbeth changed since the beginning of the play? Explain. Possible answer: Macbeth’s reasoning shows that he is cunning and ma-nipulative. He is aware of the tenuousness of his position, and he realizes that he needs all the support he can get. Macbeth seems to be a different character now, for his sense of remorse has disappeared, as has his loyalty to anyone but himself.



Whose absence is no less material to meThan is his father’s, must embrace the fateOf that dark hour. Resolve yourselves apart.I’ll come to you anon.

Murderers. We are resolved, my lord.

Macbeth. I’ll call upon you straight. Abide within.

[Murderers exit.]It is concluded. Banquo, thy soul’s flight,If it find heaven, must find it out tonight.

[He exits.]

Scene 2 Macbeth’s palace at Forres.Lady Macbeth and her husband discuss the troubled thoughts and bad dreams they have had since Duncan’s murder. However, they agree to hide their dark emotions at the night’s banquet. Lady Macbeth tries to comfort the tormented Macbeth, but her words do no good. Instead, Macbeth hints at some terrible event that will occur that night.[Enter Lady Macbeth and a Servant.]

Lady Macbeth. Is Banquo gone from court?

Servant. Ay, madam, but returns again tonight.

Lady Macbeth. Say to the King I would attend his leisure For a few words.

Servant. Madam, I will.

[He exits.]Lady Macbeth. Naught’s had, all’s spent,Where our desire is got without content.’Tis safer to be that which we destroyThan by destruction dwell in doubtful joy. c[Enter Macbeth.]

How now, my lord? Why do you keep alone,Of sorriest fancies your companions making,Using those thoughts which should indeed have diedWith them they think on? Things without all remedyShould be without regard. What’s done is done.

Macbeth. We have scorched the snake, not killed it.She’ll close and be herself whilst our poor maliceRemains in danger of her former tooth.But let the frame of things disjoint, both the worlds suffer,Ere we will eat our meal in fear, and sleepIn the affliction of these terrible dreamsThat shake us nightly. Better be with the dead,Whom we, to gain our peace, have sent to peace,

135

140

5

10

15

20

135 absence: death. Why is the death of Fleance so important?

137 Resolve yourselves apart: Decide in private.

139 straight: soon.

4–7 Nothing (naught) has been gained; everything has been wasted (spent). It would be better to be dead like Duncan than to live in uncertain joy.

16–22 He would rather have the world fall apart (the frame of things disjoint) than be afflicted with such fears and nightmares. Death is preferable to life on the torture rack of mental anguish (restless ecstasy).

c SOLILOQUYCompare Lady Macbeth’s brief soliloquy in lines 4–7 with what she says to Macbeth in lines 8–12. Why do you think she wants to conceal her real feelings from her husband?



for struggling readersPreview Model creating a cartoon to record key details in the plot summary for Scene 2.

Task Support Have students read the ques-tion in the side note for Scene 1, line 135. Before students answer the question, have them recall the witches’ prophecy to Banquo. Possible answer: Fleance’s death is important because the witches prophesied that Banquo would be the father of kings. Only by killing Fleance as well as Banquo can Macbeth keep that part of the prophecy from being fulfilled.

for english language learnersConcept Support As students read this first part of Scene 2, point out that Lady Macbeth incorrectly assumes that Macbeth is thinking about things from the past (lines 8–12) when he actually is thinking about future possibili-ties (lines 13–19). Note that Lady Macbeth cannot predict what Macbeth is thinking as she once did. Urge students to watch for additional signs of a division between them.


Can you ever be too AMBITIOUS?Discuss In lines 4–19, how do the couple’s words show that achieving an ambition may not automatically bring satisfaction? Possible answer: Lady Macbeth’s private words express worry about being able to hold on to what they have gained; Macbeth echoes that sentiment when he speaks to her.

c soliloQuyPossible answers: Lady Macbeth probably wants to conceal her true feelings because she does not want her husband to become discouraged; she knows that she needs to bolster his courage. In addition, she probably does not want to appear weak, especially as the new queen.IF STUDENTS NEED HELP . . . Focus on each group of lines noted in the question.• Have students reread lines 4–7 and the

side note for those lines. Elicit that Lady Macbeth is discouraged and does not feel that their plan is going to work after all.

• Have students read lines 8–12. Note that Lady Macbeth is trying to keep Macbeth from dwelling upon “sorriest fancies” (line 9). She tells him not to dwell on things about which he cannot do anything (lines 11–12). Lead students to conclude that what Lady Macbeth tells her husband and what she really feels are quite different.


Lady Macbeth

Do not think about what you cannot

fix. You will be fine.

Macbeth

No, we will not. Something horrible

will happen.


RL 3RL 5



Than on the torture of the mind to lieIn restless ecstasy. 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, nothingCan touch him further.

Lady Macbeth. Come on, gentle my lord,Sleek o’er your rugged looks. Be bright and jovialAmong your guests tonight.

Macbeth. So shall I, love,And so I pray be you. Let your remembranceApply to Banquo; present him eminenceBoth with eye and tongue: unsafe the while that weMust lave our honors in these flattering streamsAnd make our faces vizards to our hearts,Disguising what they are.

Lady Macbeth. You must leave this.

Macbeth. O, full of scorpions is my mind, dear wife!Thou know’st that Banquo and his Fleance lives.

Lady Macbeth. But in them Nature’s copy’s not eterne.

Macbeth. There’s comfort yet; they are assailable.Then be thou jocund. Ere the bat hath flownHis cloistered flight, ere to black Hecate’s summonsThe shard-borne beetle with his drowsy humsHath rung night’s yawning peal, there shall be doneA deed of dreadful note.

Lady Macbeth. What’s to be done?

Macbeth. Be innocent of the knowledge, dearest chuck,Till thou applaud the deed.—Come, seeling night,Scarf up the tender eye of pitiful day,And with thy bloody and invisible handCancel and tear to pieces that great bondWhich keeps me pale. Light thickens, and the crowMakes wing to th’ rooky 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.

[They exit.]

25

30

35

40

45

50

55

27 sleek: smooth.

30 present him eminence: pay special attention to him.

32 lave . . . streams: wash (lave) our honor in streams of flattery—that is, falsify our feelings.33 vizards: masks.

39–43 jocund: cheerful; merry; Ere the bat . . . note: Before nightfall, when the bats and beetles fly, something dreadful will happen.

37 in them . . . not eterne: Nature did not give them immortality.

44 chuck: chick (a term of affection).

54 Things brought about through evil need additional evil to make them strong.

50 rooky: gloomy; also, filled with rooks, or crows.

48 great bond: Banquo’s life.

45 seeling: blinding.


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 388 11/24/10 11:58:19 AMdifferentiated instructionfor struggling readersRecognize Themes Make sure students under-stand that in lines 30–34, Macbeth says that he and Lady Macbeth must use their faces to mask their hearts—that is, they must appear friendly so that Banquo will not suspect their plans to murder him. Briefly discuss how this statement reflects the themes of ambition and of the difference between appearance and reality.

for english language learnersOutdated Forms Ask students to add these outdated terms to their language journals. (See the For English Language Learners note on page 351.)• foreign levy (Scene 2, line 25), “invasion”• Scarf up (Scene 2, line 46), “Blindfold”• prithee (Scene 2, line 55), “please” (“I pray

thee”)• delivers (Scene 3, line 2), “reports”• Hark (Scene 3, line 8), “Listen”

for advanced learners/apAnalyze Character Note that Macbeth’s thoughts and expressions become more sinister in Scene 2. Have students write and share a paragraph or two in which they cite textual evidence in response to these questions:• Has Macbeth’s relationship to darkness or

evil changed? Explain.• How does he feel about supernatural evil?• At this point in the play, who seems more

evil, Macbeth or Lady Macbeth?

tiered discussion promptsIn lines 8–26, use these prompts to help stu-dents examine the way that Macbeth views himself:

Recall What advice has Lady Macbeth given her husband about what he has done? Possible answer: Lady Macbeth has told him to forget about the past, which he cannot change (lines 10–12).Analyze What metaphor does Macbeth use to describe his present situation? Why is this comparison ironic? Possible answer: Macbeth uses the metaphor of the snake to represent the obstacles of his success. This comparison is ironic because Macbeth has murdered Duncan and hired assassins to kill Banquo and Fleance. Macbeth is a ruth-less predator—not an innocent victim, as he suggests.Evaluate Do you think Macbeth really thinks it would be better “with the dead”?Possible answers: Yes, Macbeth regrets his actions and realizes that only more violence is to come. No, if Macbeth truly regretted his actions and wished for peace, he would not plan more murders.



Scene 3 A park near the palace.The two murderers, joined by a third, ambush Banquo and Fleance, killing Banquo. Fleance manages to escape in the darkness.[Enter three Murderers.]

First Murderer. But who did bid thee join with us?

Third Murderer. Macbeth.

Second Murderer. [To the First Murderer]He needs not our mistrust, since he deliversOur offices and what we have to doTo the direction just.

First Murderer. Then stand with us.—The west yet glimmers with some streaks of day.Now spurs the lated traveler apaceTo gain the timely inn, and near approachesThe subject of our watch.

Third Murderer. Hark, I hear horses.

Banquo. [Within] Give us a light there, ho!

Second Murderer. Then ’tis he. The restThat are within the note of expectationAlready are i’ th’ court.

First Murderer. His horses go about.

Third Murderer. Almost a mile; but he does usually(So all men do) from hence to th’ palace gateMake it their walk.

[Enter Banquo and Fleance, with a torch.]Second Murderer. A light, a light!

Third Murderer. ’Tis he.

First Murderer. Stand to ’t.

Banquo. It will be rain tonight.

First Murderer. Let it come down!

[The three Murderers attack.]Banquo. O, treachery! Fly, good Fleance, fly, fly, fly!Thou mayst revenge—O slave!

[He dies. Fleance exits.]Third Murderer. Who did strike out the light?

First Murderer. Was ’t not the way?

Third Murderer. There’s but one down. The son is fled.

Second Murderer. We have lost best half of our affair.

First Murderer. Well, let’s away and say how much is done.

[They exit.]

5

10

15

20

2–4 He needs . . . just: Macbeth should not be distrustful, since he gave us the orders (offices) and we plan to follow his directions exactly.

6 lated: tardy; late.

9 Give us a light: Banquo, nearing the palace, calls for servants to bring a light.9–11 Then ’tis . . . court: It must be Banquo, since all the other expected guests are already in the palace.

19 Was ’t not the way: Isn’t that what we were supposed to do? Apparently, one of the murderers struck out the light, thus allowing Fleance to escape.

18 Thou mayst revenge: You might live to avenge my death.

15 Stand to ’t: Be prepared.



for struggling readersPreview Have students read the plot sum-mary for Scene 3, and then ask them to use a Sequence Chain to record the events that it mentions.

BEST PRACTICES TOOLKIT—TransparencySequence Chain p. B21

for advanced learners/apAnalyze Author’s Purpose [small-group op-tion] Point out that this short scene is central to the play and that it presents the first act of violence that has been performed on the stage. Ask students to discuss why Shake-speare might have chosen to show Banquo’s murder and how the scene affects the audience.


Can you ever be too AMBITIOUS?Discuss In lines 17–22, as Scene 3 concludes, what might Fleance’s ambition be after the murder of his father? Possible answer: Fleance may now wish to seek revenge from his father’s killers.

The two murderers are joined by a mysterious third murderer.

The murderers attack Banquo and Fleance.

Banquo dies, but Fleance escapes.




Scene 4 The hall in the palace.As the banquet begins, one of the murderers reports on Banquo’s death and Fleance’s escape. Macbeth is disturbed by the news and even more shaken when he returns to the banquet table and sees the bloody ghost of Banquo. Only Macbeth sees the ghost, and his terrified reaction startles the guests. Lady Macbeth explains her husband’s strange behavior as an illness from childhood that will soon pass. Once the ghost disappears, Macbeth calls for a toast to Banquo, whose ghost immediately reappears. Because Macbeth begins to rant and rave, Lady Macbeth dismisses the guests, fearful that her husband will reveal too much. Macbeth, alone with his wife, tells of his suspicions of Macduff, absent from the banquet. He also says he will visit the witches again and hints at bloody deeds yet to happen.[Banquet prepared. Enter Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, Ross, Lennox, Lords, and Attendants.]

Macbeth. You know your own degrees; sit down. At firstAnd last, the hearty welcome.

[They sit.] Lords. Thanks to your Majesty.

Macbeth. Ourself will mingle with societyAnd play the humble host.Our hostess keeps her state, but in best timeWe will require her welcome.

5

1 your own degrees: where your rank entitles you to sit.

5 keeps her state: sits on her throne rather than at the banquet table.

Macbeth and one of the murderers


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 390 11/24/10 11:58:21 AMdifferentiated instructionfor struggling readersPreview After students have read the plot summary, help them use a concept web to record what happens in Scene 4.

for english language learnersOutdated Forms Ask students to add these out-dated terms to their language journals. (See the For English Language Learners note on page 351.)• Ourself (line 3), “We (royalty representing

the country)”• large (line 11), “plentiful or generous”• Anon (line 11), “At once” or “Immediately”• cabined (line 24), “shut up (as in a cabin)”• saucy (line 25), “rude”• trenchèd (line 27), “cut long and deep”

MACBETH

offers toast to Banquo, and the ghost reappears; Macbeth

goes “mad”

suspicious of Macduff

upset that Flea-nce escapes

plans to visit the witches again

horrified when he thinks that he sees

Banquo’s ghost

Analyze VisualsActivity What is the setting of this photo-graph? Why are Macbeth and the murderer speaking apart from the others? Possible an-swer: The setting is the banquet at Macbeth’s palace at Forres. Macbeth and the murderer are speaking privately because they do not want the banquet guests to suspect them of plotting.



Lady Macbeth. Pronounce it for me, sir, to all our friends,For my heart speaks they are welcome.

[Enter First Murderer to the door.]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 measureThe table round. [Approaching the Murderer] There’s blood upon thy

face.

Murderer. ’Tis Banquo’s then.

Macbeth. ’Tis better thee without than he within.Is he dispatched?

Murderer. My lord, his throat is cut. That I did for him.

Macbeth. 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.

Murderer. Most royal sir, Fleance is ’scaped.

Macbeth. [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 casing air.But now I am cabined, cribbed, confined, bound inTo saucy doubts and fears.—But Banquo’s safe? dMurderer. Ay, my good lord. Safe in a ditch he bides,With twenty trenchèd gashes on his head,The least a death to nature.

Macbeth. Thanks for that.There the grown serpent lies. The worm that’s fledHath nature that in time will venom breed,No teeth for th’ present. Get thee gone. TomorrowWe’ll hear ourselves again.

[Murderer exits.]Lady Macbeth. My royal lord,You do not give the cheer. The feast is soldThat is not often vouched, while ’tis a-making,’Tis given with welcome. To feed were best at home;From thence, the sauce to meat is ceremony;Meeting were bare without it.

[Enter the Ghost of Banquo, and sits in Macbeth’s place.]Macbeth. [To Lady Macbeth] Sweet remembrancer!—Now, good digestion wait on appetiteAnd health on both!

Lennox. May’t please your Highness sit.

10

15

20

25

30

35

11 measure: toast. Macbeth keeps talking to his wife and guests as he casually edges toward the door to speak privately with the murderer.

15 dispatched: killed.

23 casing: surrounding.

19 nonpareil: best.

29 worm: little serpent, that is, Fleance.

31 no teeth for th’ present: too young to cause harm right now. 32 hear ourselves: talk together.

32–37 Macbeth must not forget his duties as host. A feast will be no different from a meal that one pays for unless the host gives his guests courteous attention (ceremony), the best part of any meal.

d ASIDENotice that Macbeth admits his fear in the aside in lines 21–25. What further actions might Macbeth take as a result of his fears?

37 sweet remembrancer: a term of affection for his wife, who has reminded him of his duty.



for struggling readersParaphrasing Shakespeare Point students to the side note for line 23 and then model this paraphrase of lines 21–23: Here comes my anxiety again. If Fleance had not escaped, I would have been completely secure, whole as marble and as confidently rooted as a rock, as free as the air. Have students paraphrase lines 24–25. Possible answer: But now I am thoroughly confined, tied to rude doubts and fears. Briefly discuss whether Fleance’s death really would solve Macbeth’s problems.

for english language learnersConcept Support Point out to students that at the beginning of the banquet (line 1), Macbeth tries to establish order by instruct-ing his guests to sit according to their rank. Shortly afterward, however, Macbeth himself becomes out of sorts and creates confusion when he learns that Fleance still lives (lines 21–25). As students continue to read, encour-age them to watch for signs of Macbeth’s further descent into madness.

d asidePossible answer: Macbeth might take further action by attempting again to kill Fleance or by killing anyone else who he thinks may threaten his position as king. IF STUDENTS NEED HELP . . . Ask them to consider what Macbeth decided to do be-cause of his fear of the witches’ prophecy to Banquo. Briefly discuss how Macbeth resorts to violence to deal with his fears.Extend the Discussion What extreme emotions does Macbeth mention in these few lines? What do such references sug-gest about Macbeth’s mental state?



RL 3RL 5



Macbeth. Here had we now our country’s honor roofed,Were the graced person of our Banquo present,Who may I rather challenge for unkindnessThan pity for mischance.

Ross. His absence, sir,Lays blame upon his promise. Please ’t your HighnessTo grace us with your royal company?

Macbeth. The table’s full.

Lennox. Here is a place reserved, sir.

Macbeth. Where?

Lennox. Here, my good lord. What is ’t that moves your Highness?

Macbeth. Which of you have done this?

Lords. What, my good lord?

Macbeth. [To the Ghost] Thou canst not say I did it. Never shake Thy gory locks at me.

Ross. Gentlemen, rise. His Highness is not well.

Lady Macbeth. Sit, worthy friends. My lord is often thusAnd hath been from his youth. Pray you, keep seat.The fit is momentary; upon a thoughtHe will again be well. If much you note himYou shall offend him and extend his passion.Feed and regard him not. [Drawing Macbeth aside] Are you a man? eMacbeth. Ay, and a bold one, that dare look on thatWhich might appall the devil.

Lady Macbeth. O, proper stuff !This is the very painting of your fear.This is the air-drawn dagger which you saidLed you to Duncan. O, these flaws and starts,Impostors to true fear, would well becomeA woman’s story at a winter’s fire,Authorized by her grandam. Shame itself!Why do you make such faces? When all’s done,You look but on a stool.

Macbeth. Prithee see there. Behold, look! [To the Ghost] Lo, how say you?Why, what care I? If thou canst nod, speak too.—If charnel houses and our graves must sendThose that we bury back, our monumentsShall be the maws of kites.

[Ghost exits.]Lady Macbeth. What, quite unmanned in folly?

Macbeth. If I stand here, I saw him.

40

45

50

55

60

65

70

60–68 She dismisses his halluci-nation as utter nonsense (proper stuff). His outbursts (flaws and starts) are the product of imaginary fears (impostors to true fear) and are unmanly, the kind of behavior described in a woman’s story.

71–73 If burial vaults (charnel houses) give back the dead, then we may as well throw our bodies to the birds (kites), whose stomachs (maws) will become our tombs (monuments).

40–43 The best people of Scotland would all be under Macbeth’s roof if Banquo were present too. He hopes Banquo’s absence is due to rudeness rather than to some accident (mischance).

46 Macbeth finally notices that Banquo’s ghost is present and sitting in the king’s chair.

e DRAMATIC IRONYIn lines 53–58, Lady Macbeth tells her guests to pay no attention to her husband’s fit. Why is the situation ironic?


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 392 11/24/10 11:58:26 AMdifferentiated instructionfor struggling readers Recognize Symbolism Make sure students understand that Banquo’s ghost takes the seat of the king (line 46). Elicit or explain that his action symbolizes the prophecy that Banquo, not Macbeth, will be the father of kings. Even if the ghostly vision is a halluci-nation, the symbolism is not lost on Macbeth.

for english language learnersConcept Support Point out that there are few stage directions to show how Banquo’s ghost looks or acts but that students can gather some clues from the dialogue. For example, lines 50–51 indicate that the ghost looks bloody and shakes his head at Macbeth. Also point out that Macbeth is the only one who can see the ghost, suggesting that he is hallucinating. (Directors of the play often choose to leave the chair empty.)

e dramatic ironyPossible answer: The situation is ironic because Lady Macbeth tells the guests that Macbeth’s fit is like many that he has experienced since childhood. The audi-ence knows full well that this is false and that Lady Macbeth is trying to disguise the fact that Macbeth is losing his mind. She is afraid that Macbeth will tell the guests about the murders.



RL 3RL 5


Lady Macbeth. Fie, for shame!

Macbeth. Blood hath been shed ere now, i’ th’ olden time,Ere humane statute purged the gentle weal;Ay, and since too, murders have been performedToo terrible for the ear. The time has beenThat, when the brains were out, the man would die,And there an end. But now they rise againWith twenty mortal murders on their crownsAnd push us from our stools. This is more strangeThan such a murder is.

Lady Macbeth. My worthy lord,Your noble friends do lack you.

Macbeth. I do forget.—Do not muse at me, my most worthy friends.I have a strange infirmity, which is nothingTo those that know me. Come, love and health to all.Then I’ll sit down.—Give me some wine. Fill full.

[Enter Ghost.]

I drink to the general joy o’ th’ whole tableAnd to our dear friend Banquo, whom we miss.Would he were here! To all and him we thirst, f And all to all.

Lords. Our duties, and the pledge.

[They raise their drinking cups.]Macbeth. [To the Ghost] Avaunt, and quit my sight! Let the earth hide

thee.Thy bones are marrowless; thy blood is cold;Thou hast no speculation in those eyesWhich thou dost glare with.

Lady Macbeth. Think of this, good peers,But as a thing of custom. ’Tis no other;Only it spoils the pleasure of the time.

Macbeth. [To the Ghost] What man dare, I dare.Approach thou like the rugged Russian bear,The armed rhinoceros, or th’ Hyrcan tiger;Take any shape but that, and my firm nervesShall never tremble. Or be alive againAnd dare me to the desert with thy sword.If trembling I inhabit then, protest meThe baby of a girl. Hence, horrible shadow!Unreal mock’ry, hence!

75

80

85

90

95

100

105

93–96 avaunt: go away. Macbeth sees Banquo again. He tells Banquo that he is only a ghost, with unreal bones, cold blood, and no consciousness (speculation).

85 muse: wonder.

75–78 Macbeth desperately tries to justify his murder of Banquo. Murder has been common from ancient times to the present, though laws (humane statute) have tried to rid civilized society (gentle weal) of violence.

99–104 Macbeth would be willing to face Banquo in any other form, even his living self.

f DRAMATIC IRONYRecognize the irony of Macbeth’s remark about Banquo in line 91: “Would he were here!” How do you think an actor playing Macbeth should say this line?

105–106 If trembling . . . girl: If I still tremble, call me a girl’s doll.



f Model the Skill: dramatic irony

To help students understand dramatic irony, explain that “Would he were here!” (line 91) means “I wish that he were here.” Point out the irony of that statement by re-minding students that the audience knows that Macbeth has had Banquo murdered, but the guests do not. Possible answer: The actor should say this line loudly, with too much heartiness, and with evident strain, as if he is trying to con-vince himself and his guests of his sincerity.



Can you ever be too AMBITIOUS?Discuss In lines 84–96, how does Macbeth show ambition in this scene—in other words, what does he hope to accomplish? Do you think that Macbeth will succeed? Possible answer: Macbeth shows ambition by trying to get the support of his noble guests. He prob-ably will not succeed in obtaining their support, for seeing (or imagining that he sees) Banquo’s ghost causes him to speak and act irrationally, unlike a person who is capable of leading a country.

for struggling readersParaphrasing Shakespeare Point students to the side notes for lines 99–104; then model this paraphrase of lines 99–103: What any man dares, I dare. Come to me like a rug-ged bear, a rhinoceros, or a fierce tiger; take any shape but that of a ghost, and I will not fear you. Ask students to paraphrase lines 103–104. Possible answer: Or be alive again as you were, and dare me to a duel.

for struggling readersDevelop Reading Fluency Have students echo-read after you the speeches on this page in which Macbeth addresses Banquo’s ghost. This activity will give students practice in pausing at periods and semicolons, rather than at the ends of lines. As students echo each sentence, you may wish to support them by reading the words aloud a second time. To conclude, read lines 99–107 to students again,

speaking fluently and expressively, as a stage actor would.


RL 3RL 5



[Ghost exits.] Why, so, being gone,I am a man again.—Pray you sit still.

Lady Macbeth. You have displaced the mirth, broke the good meetingWith most admired disorder.

Macbeth. Can such things beAnd overcome us like a summer’s cloud,Without our special wonder? You make me strangeEven to the disposition that I owe,When now I think you can behold such sightsAnd keep the natural ruby of your cheeksWhen mine is blanched with fear.

Ross. What sights, my lord?

Lady Macbeth. 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,But go at once.

Lennox. Good night, and better healthAttend his Majesty.

Lady Macbeth. A kind good night to all.

[Lords and all but Macbeth and Lady Macbeth exit.]Macbeth. It will have blood, they say; blood will have blood.Stones have been known to move, and trees to speak;Augurs and understood relations haveBy maggot pies and choughs and rooks brought forthThe secret’st man of blood.—What is the night?

Lady Macbeth. Almost at odds with morning, which is which.

Macbeth. How say’st thou that Macduff denies his personAt our great bidding?

Lady Macbeth. Did you send to him, sir?

Macbeth. I hear it by the way; but I will send.There’s not a one of them but in his houseI keep a servant fee’d. I will tomorrow(And betimes I will) to the Weïrd Sisters.More shall they speak, for now I am bent to knowBy the worst means the worst. For mine own good,All causes shall give way. I am in bloodStepped 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.

110

115

120

125

130

135

140

135–140 Macbeth will do anything to protect himself. He has stepped so far into a river of blood that it would make no sense to turn back. He will act upon his unnatural (strange) thoughts without having examined (scanned) them.

128–129 How say’st . . . bidding: What do you think of Macduff’s refusal to come? Why do you think Macbeth is suddenly so concerned about Macduff?131–132 Macbeth has paid (fee’d) household servants to spy on every noble, including Macduff.133 betimes: early.134 bent: determined.

110 admired: astonishing.

110–116 Macbeth is bewildered by his wife’s calm. Her reaction makes him seem a stranger to himself (strange even to the disposition that I owe): she seems to be the one with all the courage, since he is white (blanched) with fear.

119 Stand . . . going: Don’t worry about the proper formalities of leaving.

122–126 Macbeth fears that Banquo’s murder (it) will be revenged by his own murder. Stones, trees, or talking birds (maggot pies and choughs and rooks) may reveal the hidden knowledge (augurs) of his guilt.


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 394 11/24/10 11:58:28 AMdifferentiated instructionfor struggling readersMake Predictions Note that Macduff is not at Macbeth’s banquet (lines 128–129) and remind students of Macbeth’s paranoia. Ask students to think about what repercussions Macduff’s absence might have for Macbeth. Encourage students to support their answers with information that they have gathered about Macbeth and Macduff thus far. Instruct students to write down their predic-tions and then to read on to see which ones prove to be correct.

Task Support Point out the question in the side note for lines 128–129. Remind students that in Act Two, Macduff found the murdered Duncan (Scene 3, lines 58–61), questioned why Macbeth killed the servants (Scene 3, line 99), and suggested that living under Dun-can’s rule would be better than living under Macbeth’s rule (Scene 4, lines 37–38). Possible answer: Macbeth is worried that Macduff has turned against him and might return to chal-lenge him.

tiered discussion promptsIn lines 122–140, use these prompts to help students note the change in Macbeth’s charac-ter once his guests leave:

Restate What does Macbeth think will hap-pen because of Banquo’s death? Possible answer: Macbeth thinks that he will pay for Banquo’s murder with his own life.Analyze How could Macbeth be character-ized at this point? Cite evidence. Possible answer: Macbeth is paranoid and has lost all integrity. Macbeth’s network of household spies is proof of his paranoia (lines 130–132). Completely steeped in evil, he acknowledges that he will consult the witches again (lines 132–133) and use any wicked way to get infor-mation, forgetting conscience (lines 134–136). Macbeth has lost any sense of integrity, for he excuses his behavior by saying it’s too late for him to change (lines 136–138).Evaluate Think about how Macbeth has changed. Does it seem that he can be a suc-cessful king? Why or why not? Possible an-swer: In the beginning of the play, Macbeth showed courage, honor, and ambition. He wanted power, but he also had a conscience and was bothered by his evil actions. At this point, he excuses his actions. He most likely cannot be a successful king because he’s too concerned with serving himself and not his people.



Behind theCurtain Promotion

Flyers and posters are among the materials used for promotion, in order to attract an audience for a play. What ideas do each of these posters for Macbeth communicate about the play? Which poster grabs your attention most, and why?

1985 poster for Verdi’s opera Macbeth

The Large Group’s 2004 production in Auckland, New Zealand

Dalhousie University’s 2005 production in Halifax, Nova Scotia



for advanced learners/apContrast and Evaluate [small-group option] Ask small groups of students to locate two or three posters that advertise the same play or movie. Have group members determine the message of each poster and decide which poster is the most effective at getting atten-tion and communicating ideas. Invite groups to share their findings with the class.

To extend the activity, challenge each group to create their own poster promoting the play or movie. What elements did each group focus on?

Behind the CurtainPromotion Explain that although promotional materials may market a play to a specific audience, they usually make an artistic state-ment as well. For example, the “open head” in the top image suggests the exploration of Macbeth’s mindset; it is likely to appeal to an audience that appreciates the psychological aspects of the tragedy. On the other hand, the bottom image, with its blood-spattered Macbeth, addresses the violence in the play and is likely to appeal to an action-loving audience. The middle image is more abstract, but its garish coloring suggests violence, and the quotation in the upper lefthand corner (which students will read in Act Four, Scene 1) emphasizes the evil that runs throughout the story; it is likely to appeal to an audience that appreciates the horror that the image sug-gests. Answers will vary, but students should identify the features that make their chosen poster appealing.




Lady Macbeth. You lack the season of all natures, sleep.

Macbeth. Come, we’ll to sleep. My strange and self-abuseIs the initiate fear that wants hard use.We are yet but young in deed.

[They exit.]

Scene 5 A heath.The goddess of witchcraft, Hecate, scolds the three witches for dealing independently with Macbeth. She outlines their next meeting with him, planning to cause his downfall by making him overconfident. (Experts believe this scene was not written by Shakespeare but rather was added later.)[Thunder. Enter the three Witches, meeting Hecate.]

First Witch. Why, how now, Hecate? You look angerly.

Hecate. Have I not reason, beldams as you are, gSaucy and overbold, how did you dareTo trade and traffic with MacbethIn riddles and affairs of death,And I, the mistress of your charms,The close contriver of all harms,Was never called to bear my partOr show the glory of our art?And which is worse, all you have doneHath 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 AcheronMeet me i’ th’ morning. Thither heWill 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 spendUnto a dismal and a fatal end.Great business must be wrought ere noon.Upon the corner of the moonThere hangs a vap’rous drop profound.I’ll catch it ere it come to ground,And that, distilled by magic sleights,Shall raise such artificial spritesAs by the strength of their illusionShall draw him on to his confusion.He shall spurn fate, scorn death, and bear

5

10

15

20

25

30

13 loves . . . you: cares only about his own goals, not about you.

15 Acheron: a river in hell, according to Greek mythology. Hecate plans to hold their meeting in a hellish place.

20–21 This . . . end: Tonight I’m working for a disastrous (dismal) and fatal end for Macbeth.

2 beldams: hags.

142–144 His vision of the ghost (strange and self-abuse) is only the result of a beginner’s fear (initiate fear), to be cured with practice (hard use).

141 season: preservative.

g BLANK VERSERead aloud a few lines from Hecate’s speech (lines 2–33). Note that they are not written in blank verse. Why might the rhyme and rhythm of these lines be appropriate for a witch?

23–29 Hecate will obtain a magical drop from the moon, treat it with secret art, and so create spirits (artificial sprites) that will lead Macbeth to his destruction (confusion).


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 396 11/24/10 11:58:35 AMdifferentiated instructionfor struggling readers Preview After students have read the plot summary for Scene 5, have them record Hecate’s two main points.

for english language learnersVocabulary Support Discuss these references to insults in Hecate’s speech:• Saucy and overbold (line 3), “Rude and

presumptuous”• wayward (line 11), “disloyal”• Spiteful (line 12), “Mean”• wrathful (line 12), “angry”

Discuss and explain these references:• destiny (line 17), “fate”• spells (line 18), “curses”• charms (line 19), “witches’ tools”• fatal (line 21), “deadly”• magic sleights (line 26), “clever tricks”

Hecate tells the witches:•˜ They should not have

dealt with Macbeth independently.

•˜ She will cause Macbeth to fall by making him overconfident.

backgroundA Fraudulent Scene? It has been said that Scene 5 neither adds important information nor flows with the rest of the play. As the syn-opsis points out, many scholars believe that Shakespeare did not write this scene; rather, they believe Thomas Middleton, a playwright who was a contemporary of Shakespeare, added it to satisfy an audience that wanted to see more of the play’s supernatural elements.

g blank versePossible answer: The singsong rhythm (iambic tetrameter) and predictable rhyme (couplets) are appropriate for a witch be-cause they mimic the sound of incantations and the casting of spells.Extend the Discussion How would the effect of Hecate’s speech be different if it were written in blank verse? if it were written as prose instead of verse?



RL 3RL 5


His hopes ’bove wisdom, grace, and fear.And you all know, securityIs mortals’ chiefest enemy. h[Music and a song]

Hark! I am called. My little spirit, see,Sits in a foggy cloud and stays for me.

[Hecate exits.][Sing within “Come away, come away,” etc.]First Witch. Come, let’s make haste. She’ll soon be back again.

[They exit.]

Scene 6 The palace at Forres.Lennox and another Scottish lord review the events surrounding the murders of Duncan and Banquo, indirectly suggesting that Macbeth is both a murderer and a tyrant. It is reported that Macduff has gone to England, where Duncan’s son Malcolm is staying with King Edward and raising an army to regain the Scottish throne. Macbeth, angered by Macduff ’s refusal to see him, is also preparing for war.[Enter Lennox and another Lord.]

Lennox. My former speeches have but hit your thoughts,Which can interpret farther. Only I sayThings have been strangely borne. The gracious DuncanWas 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 how monstrousIt was for Malcolm and for DonalbainTo kill their gracious father? Damnèd fact,How it did grieve Macbeth! Did he not straightIn pious rage the two delinquents tearThat were the slaves of drink and thralls of sleep?Was not that nobly done? Ay, and wisely, too,For ’twould have angered any heart aliveTo hear the men deny ’t. So that I sayHe has borne all things well. And I do thinkThat had he Duncan’s sons under his key(As, an ’t please heaven, he shall not) they should findWhat ’twere to kill a father. So should Fleance.But peace. For from broad words, and ’cause he failedHis presence at the tyrant’s feast, I hearMacduff lives in disgrace. Sir, can you tellWhere he bestows himself?

35

5

10

15

20

6–7 Lennox is being ironic when he says that fleeing the scene of the crime must make Fleance guilty of his father’s murder.8–10 He says that everyone agrees on the horror of Duncan’s murder by his sons. But Lennox has been consistently ironic, claiming to believe in what is obviously false. His words indirectly blame Macbeth.12 pious: holy.

34–35 Like the other witches, Hecate has a demon helper (my little spirit). At the end of her speech, she is raised by pulley to “the heavens” of the stage.

1–3 Lennox and the other lord have shared suspicions of Macbeth.

h TRAGEDYReread lines 23–33. How does Hecate reveal herself to be Macbeth’s antagonist?

15–16 Again, he is being ironic. If the servants had lived, Macbeth might have been discovered.

21 from broad words: because of his frank talk.

24 bestows himself: is staying.



for struggling readers Preview After students have read the Scene 6 summary, have them use a Problem and Solution Chart to record the key events that Lennox and the Scottish lord reveal through their conversation.

BEST PRACTICES TOOLKIT—TransparencyProblem and Solution Chart p. B20

Problem SolutionMacbeth is thought to have obtained the throne by evil means.

Macduff goes to England, where Malcolm is raising an army to regain the throne.

Macduff refuses to see Macbeth.

Macbeth plans for war.

for advanced learners/apRewrite Dialogue Have students rewrite this scene in contemporary prose. Remind stu-dents that the conversation reveals important plot details and is marked by an ironic tone, which should appear in the revisions. Remind them, too, that stage directions can specify tone of voice, facial expressions, and body lan-guage that convey meaning. Invite students to present their rewritten dialogue.

h tragedyPossible answer: Hecate reveals herself as Macbeth’s antagonist by describing the magical means by which she will contribute to his downfall (lines 23–29). She says that she will make Macbeth so overconfident that he will do something foolhardy, lead-ing to his destruction (lines 30–33).Extend the Discussion Do you agree that “security / Is mortals’ chiefest enemy” (line 33)? Why or why not?



RL 3RL 5


Lord. The son of Duncan(From whom this tyrant holds the due of birth)Lives in the English court and is receivedOf the most pious Edward with such graceThat the malevolence of fortune nothingTakes from his high respect. Thither MacduffIs gone to pray the holy king upon his aidTo wake Northumberland and warlike SiwardThat, by the help of these (with Him aboveTo ratify the work), we may againGive to our tables meat, sleep to our nights,Free from our feasts and banquets bloody knives,Do faithful homage, and receive free honors,All which we pine for now. And this reportHath so exasperate the King that hePrepares for some attempt of war.

Lennox. Sent he to Macduff?

Lord. He did, and with an absolute “Sir, not I,”The cloudy messenger turns me his backAnd hums, as who should say, “You’ll rue the timeThat clogs me with this answer.”

Lennox. And that well mightAdvise him to a caution t’ hold what distanceHis wisdom can provide. Some holy angelFly to the court of England and unfoldHis message ere he come, that a swift blessingMay soon return to this our suffering countryUnder a hand accursed.

Lord. I’ll send my prayers with him.

[They exit.]

25

30

35

40

45 Language CoachFigures of Speech Shakespeare often uses a figure of speech in which a part stands for the whole. Reread lines 45–49. Who or what does the hand accursed (or “wicked hand”) stand for?

40–43 The messenger, fearing Macbeth’s anger, was unhappy (cloudy) with Macduff’s refusal to cooperate. Because Macduff burdens (clogs) him with bad news, he will not hurry back.

25 Macbeth keeps Malcolm from his birthright. As the eldest son of Duncan, Malcolm should be king.27 Edward: Edward the Confessor, king of England from 1042 to 1066, a man known for his virtue and religion.28–29 that . . . respect: Though Malcolm suffers from bad fortune (the loss of the throne), he is respectfully treated by Edward.29–37 Macduff wants the king to persuade the people of Northumberland and their earl, Siward, to join Malcolm’s cause.


NA_L12PE-u02s24-Act3.indd 398 11/24/10 11:58:37 AMNA_L12PE-u02s24-arAct3.indd 399 11/24/10 11:57:56 AMdifferentiated instruction


Can you ever be too AMBITIOUS?Discuss According to the lord speaking in lines 24–39, how does Macduff hope to put an end to Macbeth’s ambition? Possible answer: Macduff hopes to stop Macbeth by getting King Edward of England to persuade the people of Northumberland and their aggressive earl Siward to join Malcolm’s cause in defeating Macbeth (lines 29–37). What does the lord believe will happen if Macduff is successful? Possible answer: The lord says if Macduff suc-ceeds, with God’s help, then order and peace will be restored to the people of Scotland (lines 32–37).

act three wrap–upREAD WITH A PURPOSE Think about Macbeth’s behavior at the banquet in Scene 4, after mak-ing the decision to have Banquo murdered. What does Macbeth seem at risk of losing because of this choice? Possible answers: his sanity, his peace of mind

CRITIQUE• Ask students to consider why Macbeth—

a king, a murderer, and perhaps a lunatic—holds the audience’s attention.

• After completing the After Reading ques-tions on page 399, have students revisit their responses and tell whether they have changed their opinions.

for english language learnersLanguage CoachFigure of Speech Possible answer: an evil ruler, namely, Macbeth Tell students that Shakespeare uses an-other figure of speech in lines 34–35. Read the lines aloud and have volunteers iden-tify and explain the figure of speech The “bloody knives” signify violence and death.

for advanced learners/apResearch and Analyze Remind students that the characters in Macbeth are based on his-torical figures. Have students read the side note for line 27 and do some research about King Edward. Ask them to share what they’ve learned about Edward in relation to Malcolm and Macbeth.




After Reading

Comprehension 1. Recall Whom does Macbeth command the two murderers to kill? 2. Clarify Why does Macbeth behave so strangely at the banquet? 3. Summarize In Scene 6, what does Lennox suggest about Macbeth?

Text Analysis 4. Examine Shakespearean Drama Review the notes you recorded on Macbeth

and Lady Macbeth in Act Three. What do their actions reveal about how their relationship has changed since the death of Duncan? Be specific.

5. Interpret Character Motives Reread Scene 1, lines 47–56. Why does Macbeth fear Banquo and feel threatened by his “being”? Support your answer.

6. Compare Actions Compare and contrast Duncan’s murder in Act Two with that of Banquo in Act Three. What does Banquo’s murder suggest about how Macbeth has been affected by his first crime?

7. Analyze Shakespearean Tragedy Skim Act Three for remarks that create dramatic irony. In a chart like the one shown, explain why the remarks are ironic by jotting down what characters think or say and what the audience knows. How does the dramatic irony enhance your enjoyment of the play?

Scene, Lines What Characters Think or Say

What Audience Knows

8. Analyze Theme In which moments of Act Three is manhood equated with a lack of fear? How valid is this view of manhood?

Text Criticism 9. Critical Interpretations In Scene 1, Macbeth meets with two murderers,

but three murderers take part in Banquo’s murder in Scene 3. Some people have speculated that the third murderer may be Macbeth himself. Is this plausible? Would that help explain his behavior at the banquet? Support your answer.

Can you ever be too ambitious?Many characters pose a threat to Macbeth. Which characters in the play do you believe pose the greatest threat to him? Why?

macbeth: act three 399

RL 3 Analyze the impact of the author’s choices regarding how to develop and relate elements of a drama. RL 4 Analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone. RL 5 Analyze how an author’s choices concerning how to structure specific parts of a text contribute to its overall structure and meaning.

NA_L12PE-u02s24-arAct3.indd 399 1/8/11 12:27:42 PM

Practice and ApplyFor preliminary support of post-reading questions, use these copy masters:

RESOURCE MANAGER—Copy MastersReading Check p. 107 Shakespearean Tragedy p. 105Question Support p. 108 Additional selection questions are provided for teachers on page 101.

answers 1. Macbeth commands the murderers to kill

Banquo and Fleance. 2. He believes that he sees Banquo’s ghost. 3. Lennox suggests that Macbeth had Duncan

murdered and framed his servants and that he ordered Banquo and Fleance to be killed.

Possible answers: 4. common core focus Reading Shake-

spearean Drama They do not seem as close as they once were. He doesn’t tell his wife everything (Scene 2, line 44), and she keeps her thoughts and suffering from him (Scene 2, lines 4–7).

5. Banquo’s loyalty will serve as a constant rebuke to Macbeth’s own nature and as a reminder of what he has done. Banquo obstructs Macbeth’s desire to found a line of kings (lines 54–56).

6. Killing Duncan may have been so un-pleasant that Macbeth hires others to kill Banquo. The second murder shows that Macbeth feels justified in using violence to remove a threat. At the same time, he is rid-den with guilt to the point of madness.

7. common core focus Shakespear-ean Tragedy Scene 1, Lines 15–18: Banquo pledges his duty to Macbeth; he is suspicious of Macbeth. Scene 1, lines 29–32: Macbeth talks of Malcolm and Donalbain’s “cruel parricide”; Macbeth is the murderer. Scene 2,

lines 29–34: Macbeth tells Lady Macbeth to watch Banquo at the banquet; Banquo will be murdered. The irony engages the audi-ence by allowing them to know more than the characters do.

8. The comparison occurs in Scene 4: Lady Mac-beth deems Macbeth’s behavior unmanly (lines 60–66); Macbeth says that he is fear-less except around a ghost (lines 99–107); and Macbeth’s manliness returns when Banquo’s ghost leaves (lines 107–108). This is a limited view of manhood, for as the play shows, men can be both manly and fearful.

9. Yes, Macbeth’s reference to Banquo’s “gory locks” (Scene 4, line 51) could suggest his partici-pation in Banquo’s murder, as could his extreme guilt and horror. No, Macbeth is surprised to learn that the murderers failed to kill Fleance (Scene 4, line 20).

Can you ever be too AMBITIOUS? Possible answers: Lady Macbeth—She has set Macbeth on a destructive path and does not help him in his deep distress. Fleance—Banquo’s surviving son—may avenge his father’s death.

Assess and ReteachAssessDIAGNOSTIC AND SELECTION TESTS

Selection Test A pp. 105–106Selection Test B/C pp. 107–108

Interactive Selection Test on thinkcentral.comReteachLevel Up Online Tutorials on thinkcentral.comReteaching Worksheets on thinkcentral.com

Literature Lesson 23, 24 macbeth: act three 399

RL 3, RL 4, RL 5

NA_L12TE_u02s09_macbeth3.indd 399NA_L12TE_u02s09_macbeth3.indd 399 1/21/11 2:06:04 PM1/21/11 2:06:04 PM

practice and apply act 3 - mr. sadek's classes€¦ · text analysis resources for act three...

Documents